Vintage Afghan Baluch Rug – Hand-Knotted Wool, Tribal Geometric Design

This striking village carpet is an authentic Baluch weaving from western Afghanistan, hand-knotted with glossy mountain wool in a saturated palette of madder red, walnut brown, camel and soft rose. The field is arranged in a repeating lattice of hooked diamonds and cruciform “gul” motifs—protective symbols long favored by Baluch nomads—framed by multiple narrow guard borders and a star-and-running-dog main border. Natural abrash (gentle tonal shifts) runs through the browns and reds, confirming small-batch dyeing and a true one-of-a-kind character.

Structurally the rug reads as classic Baluch work: asymmetric (Senneh-type) knots on a wool foundation with two wefts, heavy brown overcast selvedges, and short, naturally finished fringes. The pile is low and velvety from age and careful use, giving the design a beautiful, slightly mosaic look that sits effortlessly in contemporary, boho, rustic or eclectic rooms. At a versatile 122 × 87 cm, it’s ideal next to a bed, in an entry, under a desk or layered with larger carpets for collected style.

Features

Size: 122 cm × 87 cm (approx. 4’0” × 2’10”)

Origin & tradition: Hand-knotted by Baluch weavers, western Afghanistan

Weave: Asymmetric/Senneh knots; wool pile on wool warp & weft; two wefts

Knot density: ~80–100 KPSI (125–155k knots per m²), medium village weave

Pile & handle: Low, ~4–6 mm; supple, flexible handle

Dyes & colors: Predominantly natural/small-batch dyes—madder red, walnut/umber, camel, ivory accents; visible abrash

Design notes: Hooked diamonds (ram’s-horn protection motif), cruciform guls, small star rosettes, reciprocal running-dog guards

Age: Vintage mid-20th century (c. 1960s–70s)

Condition: Very good vintage—even, low pile with gentle age sheen; minor end/fringe wear and slight selvedge rubbing consistent with age; clean and ready to use

Foundation & edges: Sturdy wool foundation; thick brown overcast selvedges; original fringes

Use cases: Entry, bedside, office, kitchen runner substitute, layering piece, wall hanging

SKU/Notes: Authentic handmade—expect delightful irregularities that prove human craftsmanship

Care Instructions

Vacuum with suction only (no beater bar). Vacuum the underside periodically.

Use a quality rug pad to reduce wear and prevent slipping.

Rotate every 3–6 months for even wear and light exposure.

Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth; avoid harsh chemicals.

For deep cleaning, use a professional hand-wash service experienced with handmade wool rugs.

Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight to preserve natural dyes.

This vintage Baluch brings history, symbolism and artisan wool underfoot. If you appreciate true handwork with soulful color and tribal geometry, this piece will be a joy to live with and an easy fit in modern or traditional interiors. Add it to your cart with confidence—authenticity guaranteed.