Baluch Vintage Rug | Hand-Knotted Wool | Tribal Geometric Red & Midnight Blue

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Vintage Baluch Prayer Rug | Hand-Knotted Wool | Tribal Geometric Red & Midnight Blue

This hand-knotted tribal rug was woven by Baluch nomad weavers from the Afghanistan–Herat borderlands. A stepped prayer-niche frames a field packed with small diamond guls in saturated madder red, midnight blue and burnt orange—classic Baluch colors that glow under natural light.

Wool that’s tightly spun and densely knotted gives the piece a tough, leathery handle. Flat-woven striped kilim ends and dark overcast selvages finish the rug—the kind of construction details collectors look for in authentic village work.

The layout centers on a mihrab (prayer niche) outlined by a tiny “toothed” guard border; inside, repeating hooked diamonds symbolize protection and continuity in Baluch visual language. Outer borders alternate rosettes and latch-hook motifs that echo the interior geometry, tying the whole composition together. From the even, low pile and gentle abrash to the intact kilim ends, the textile reads as a well-cared-for vintage piece ready for everyday use or wall display.

Features:
• Dimensions: 150 cm × 97 cm (approx. 4'11" × 3'2")
• Origin & tradition: Baluch tribal weaving, western Afghanistan/Herat area
• Weave & knotting: hand-knotted wool pile with asymmetric (single-warp) knots; flat-woven kilim ends; double-cord overcast edges
• Materials: naturally oily sheep’s-wool pile; wool foundation (with darker brown warps typical of Baluch work)
• Pile & handle: low, compact pile ~6–7 mm; sturdy, supple handle
• Knot density: approx. 70–90 KPSI (medium)
• Dyes: predominantly natural madder reds and indigo blues with warm orange and ivory highlights; pleasing abrash (shade variation)
• Design notes: stepped prayer-niche, repeating hooked diamond guls, “toothed” inner guard, rosette & latch-hook main borders, striped kilim ends
• Age: mid-20th century (c. 1960s–1980s)
• Condition: very good vintage—even low pile with light age patina, intact sides and ends, no obvious repairs; ready for use
• Uses: entry, bedside, office, meditation/prayer corner, or striking wall hanging
• Provenance & authenticity: inspected for hand-spun wool, irregularities in weave, and tribal finishing consistent with Baluch workshop practice

Care Instructions

• Vacuum gently without a beater bar; use a mesh screen if available.
• Rotate every few months for even wear and fade.
• Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and extend life.
• Keep out of direct, strong sunlight; natural dyes can mellow.
• Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth—no scrubbing.
• For deep cleaning, use a professional hand-wash service (no steam or harsh chemicals).

Bring home an authentic piece of nomadic art—rich color, meaningful patterning, and time-tested durability. If you’d like additional photos, a video, or a custom pad, just ask. Worldwide shipping with careful packing.