Red & Black Horse Kilim Tapestry: Handwoven Wool Tribal Art (4'6" × 3'1")

This remarkable vintage tribal kilim tapestry captures the wild spirit of freedom and nature through the dynamic imagery of galloping horses beneath a lone tree. Handwoven using a traditional flat-weave tapestry technique, it reflects both exceptional artistry and emotional storytelling. The vivid crimson red and charcoal black tones create dramatic contrast, bringing the herd of horses to life against the mountainous landscape backdrop. The initials “ME” at the base subtly mark the weaver’s pride—rare in tribal textiles—attesting to the individuality and craftsmanship behind this piece.


This handwoven wool tapestry belongs to the Central and Western Asian tribal weaving tradition, where artisans often depict scenes of daily life, nomadic animals, and symbolic landscapes in their textiles. Unlike geometric kilims, this one displays figural and narrative composition, showing deep artistic expression uncommon in standard flat-weaves.

The central imagery—a galloping herd of horses under a large tree with mountain silhouettes—is both symbolic and aesthetic.

The horse motif represents freedom, vitality, and strength, reflecting its revered status in nomadic culture as a symbol of endurance and independence.

The tree stands for life and shelter, grounding the energy of the herd while symbolizing fertility and connection to the earth.

The mountain range evokes protection and permanence, embodying the eternal relationship between nature and human life.

The simplicity of the two-tone palette—deep black wool over madder red ground—reflects the weaver’s mastery of contrast, creating depth through shadow and motion without relying on multiple dye colors.

The texture and weave indicate a tight, handwoven flat-weave construction, consistent with kilim or tapestry rugs rather than knotted-pile carpets. The use of fine handspun wool gives the surface a subtle sheen, and the weave density (approx. 40–50 weft lines per inch) showcases control and precision.

This design is consistent with late 20th-century artisan kilims (1970s–1990s)—a period when traditional weavers began incorporating storytelling and representational imagery into their work for artistic rather than purely functional purposes.

Features:

Origin / Tradition: Central Asian or Anatolian tribal weaving tradition

Date: Circa 1975–1995

Dimensions: 137 × 95 cm (≈ 4'6" × 3'1")

Construction: Handwoven flat-weave tapestry (kilim type)

Technique: Slit-weave and interlocked weft tapestry technique

Materials: 100% handspun wool (warp & weft)

Colors / Dyes: Deep madder red and black; likely natural and aniline dye mix

Thickness: Approx. 3–4 mm (lightweight and reversible)

Knot Density: N/A – flat-weave construction (approx. 40–50 weft lines per inch)

Condition: Excellent vintage condition – edges and corners intact, no holes, tears, or discoloration. Minor irregularities typical of hand-loomed art textiles.

Estimated Weaving Time: 3–4 weeks for one skilled artisan

Handwoven flat-weave tapestry with narrative horse motif

Artist initial “ME” woven into the lower field – rare signature mark

Symbolic design of horses, tree, and mountains representing freedom and vitality

Crafted from pure handspun wool, dyed in deep red and black tones

Reversible, lightweight, and versatile – suitable for wall hanging or floor use

Collectible mid-century tribal art textile

Care instructions

Vacuum lightly or shake to remove dust – avoid brush rollers.

Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent dye fading.

For cleaning, use professional rug or tapestry cleaners familiar with handwoven wool.

Do not machine wash or soak; spot-clean with cool water and mild wool detergent.

Roll, do not fold, for storage.

Mount with a rod or clips for wall display to avoid fabric strain.

Styling and décor ideas

This tapestry serves beautifully as a statement wall hanging, bedside accent, or art textile for collectors who appreciate handwoven craftsmanship. Its bold red and black contrast complements modern, bohemian, rustic, or minimalist interiors. Display it behind a sofa or bed, or hang it as a gallery-style textile artwork to showcase its dramatic visual storytelling.


Bring home this handwoven masterpiece of motion and symbolism—a vivid story in wool, crafted by hand, preserving the legacy of tribal storytelling and the timeless connection between artisan and nature.