Colorful Maimana Kilim Runner: Handwoven Afghan Wool Rug (6'6" x 2'10")

A statement of living craft: this handwoven Maimana kilim runner pairs a rhythmic diamond chain with lightning-like zigzags and flower guards, delivering movement and color to any corridor or galley kitchen.

Woven on a ground loom by a village weaver from northern Afghanistan, the runner uses the time-honored slit-tapestry kilim method. The serrated lozenges (symbols of the eye/amulet) march along the center, surrounded by stepped zigzag “water/energy” bands. In the borders, you’ll spot stylized rosettes, double triangles, and tiny eight-pointed elements—protective devices in regional folk belief that “watch” over the center field.

Visual Authentication

Weave & structure: flatweave kilim; crisp color joins with small slits at motif boundaries—precisely what we expect from this technique. Approx. 7–8 weft rows per cm (18–20 per inch) visible in the close shots.

Foundation & materials: wool on wool; grey wool fringes and braided corner ties are visible.

Palette: brick/madder, orange, butter, pistachio, jade, turquoise, periwinkle, amethyst, and ivory with attractive abrash.

Age: contemporary (5–10 years). Fibers are sound, edges straight, ends complete.

Regional markers: stacked ashik diamonds, multicolor zigzag frame, flower guard stripes—consistent with Maimana workshop and cottage production.

Features:

Origin: Northern Afghanistan (Maimana kilim tradition)

Date: ca. 2015–2024

Size: 198 cm x 88 cm (approx. 6’6” x 2’10”)

Construction: handwoven kilim (flatweave), slit-tapestry

Weave density: ~7–8 weft rows/cm (≈18–20/inch)

Pile: none (flatweave)

Materials: 100% wool weft on wool warp

Condition: Excellent, no visible repairs; light, normal weaving irregularities typical of handmade kilims.

Time to weave: about 2–3 weeks for a single experienced weaver.

Genuine Afghan tribal kilim with vibrant color play

Reversible & lightweight yet durable

Ideal runner for halls, kitchens, entryways

One-of-a-kind artisan piece with meaningful motifs

Works beautifully with neutral interiors as a color accent

Care Instructions

Use a rug pad to prevent slipping and to extend life.

Vacuum gently (no beater bar).

Spot clean with cool water/wool soap; avoid soaking.

Air dry flat and out of direct sun after any cleaning.

Professional rug wash as needed.

These runners are not mass-produced; each is the product of a single artisan’s rhythm and eye for color. If one speaks to you, add it to your cart with confidence—I ship quickly, include a care card, and stand behind every rug I curate.