Wool Runner Rug, Vintage Hand-Knotted Rug: Tribal Medallion, Navy & Rust

This striking handmade tribal rug brings the bold, protective geometry of nomadic West Asian weaving into a versatile, room-friendly size. Saturated navy and rust ground its angular medallions and protective latch-hooks, while emerald and brick accents add life and movement. Woven entirely by hand in the late 20th century, it has the honest character, durable wool, and cultural symbolism collectors love—and the easy styling modern homes need.


Weaving tradition.
The drawing, palette and construction point to a West Asian/Caucasus tribal tradition—the same world that produced village weavings from the highlands between Anatolia and the South Caucasus. The stepped polygonal medallions with latch-hook “amulet” arms, scattered boteh (seed/leaf) figures, and serrated “running-dog” and reciprocal borders are classic hallmarks of this tradition.

Knot structure.
Back images show squared knot nodes and a firm, meaty handle typical of symmetrical (Ghiordes/Turkish) knots on a wool foundation.

Age.
Dye set, even wear, and the specific teal/emerald tones (chrome-dye era) indicate a late 20th-century make, c. 1980–1995.

Materials & handle.

Pile: highland wool, hand-spun, naturally resilient with a soft, springy handle.

Foundation: wool warps & wefts (end fringe shows undyed wool; weft shots appear medium brown).

Dyes: a mix of traditional and later synthetic/chrome dyes giving deep navy, rust, madder-red, and emerald.

Pile height & density.
Medium pile ~ 6–8 mm; village handle with approx. 80–100 knots per square inch (coarse-medium), ideal for durability.

Regional signatures & symbols.

Central “totemic” cross-like medallion with hooked arms → protective, warding intent.

Boteh scattered through the navy field → seed/flame; growth and vitality.

Eight-pointed stars and tiny rosettes → guidance/luck.

Running-dog & reciprocal serrated borders echo the field’s zig-zag protection theme and frame the composition with motion.

Condition (honest & transparent).

Very good vintage: even pile with no low patches; original side cords intact; fringes short but secure.

Light age-appropriate abrash (tone shifts in the navy/rust) adds character.

No stains, holes, or obvious repairs visible in photos.

No maker’s signature present—typical of village production.

Dimensions

Metric: 201 cm x 112 cm

Imperial: approx. 6 ft 7 in x 3 ft 8 in

(Perfect for an entry, kitchen runner, bedside, office, or layered living room look.)

Technical specifications

Type: Hand-knotted tribal rug

Origin: West Asia / Caucasus cultural sphere (village/nomadic production)

Age: c. 1980–1995

Materials: 100% wool pile on wool foundation

Knot: Symmetrical (Ghiordes)

KPSI (est.): 80–100

Pile height: ~6–8 mm

Colors: deep navy, rust/caramel, madder red, emerald/teal, ivory accents

Condition: very good vintage; original edges & fringes sound; minor abrash; ready for use

Why this rug is special

Authentic tribal geometry—bold medallions, latch-hooks, boteh and stars with protective symbolism.

Collector-loved palette of navy & rust with emerald pops—rich, moody, and easy to style.

Durable wool on wool build with a comfy, medium pile.

Handmade character—subtle abrash, village drawing, and great patina.


Care instructions

Use a rug pad to prevent slip and reduce wear.

Vacuum weekly with suction only (no beater bar).

Rotate every 3–6 months for even fading/wear.

Blot spills immediately with a clean white cloth; spot clean with wool-safe solution only.

Avoid prolonged direct sun; close blinds or rotate.

Professional hand-wash recommended every 3–5 years (no steam cleaning).

Bring home a genuine piece of nomadic artistry—rich color, protective symbols, and the kind of handmade soul no machine can imitate. Add to cart with confidence; I ship quickly and pack professionally. If you’d like a rug pad cut to size or more photos, just ask!