Vintage Scenic Rug – Hand-Knotted Wool Rug (5.4 x 3.5 ft)

Bring museum-style storytelling to your space with this hand-knotted pictorial “hunting-scene / animal-garden” rug measuring 165 × 107 cm (5.4 × 3.5 ft). A scrolling central panel repeats down the axis, flanked by antelopes/deer, birds and flowering sprays—classic courtly imagery from Central/West Asian workshop traditions. A warm black-brown field and caramel, pistachio green, saffron, coral-red and ivory accents give the design dimensional depth, while diamond and floral borders frame the tableau with crisp symmetry.
Visual Analysis & Authentication (evidence from photos)


Weaving tradition: Workshop/village pictorial tradition from Greater Central/West Asia (typical of hunting-scene rugs woven in Afghanistan and neighboring regions).


Knot structure: Back shows tight, staggered rows with one knot leg more prominent → asymmetrical (Senneh) knots.


Foundation & materials: Fringe and back reveal cotton warps/wefts; pile is hand-spun wool, lustrous and resilient.


Palette & dyes: Natural-toned camel, bottle-green, saffron, madder-red, ivory on a black-brown ground; subtle abrash consistent with small-batch dyeing.


Pattern hallmarks: Repeating mirrored cartouches with deer/antelopes and birds, serrated palmettes, rosettes and scrolling vines; outer guard with meandering floral sprigs; main border of red diamonds with small cruciform centers—motifs long associated with hunting-garden narratives.


Age estimate: Late 20th century (c. 1975–1990). Indicators: color set, cotton foundation, even shearing, and overall handle.


Signatures / marks: No weaver signature observed; pictorial animal repeats and border recipe function as the regional “signature.”


Pile height & handle: Close-ups show short/medium pile (≈4–6 mm), compactly packed with a supple yet sturdy handle.


Condition: Very good vintage—even pile, edges sound, mild corner curl and light age patina; no obvious holes or heavy repairs visible in images.


Cultural Reading (naqsha & symbolism)


Hunting garden: courtly leisure, mastery and abundance; animals (deer, birds) symbolize vitality and blessing.


Palmettes/rosettes & scrolling islimi vines: perpetual growth/renewal, a classic garden metaphor.


Protective frame: the diamond main border encircles the pictorial field, acting as a visual “fence” around the garden narrative.


Features


Type: Hand-knotted pictorial animal-garden rug


Dimensions: 165 × 107 cm (5.4 × 3.5 ft)


Knot type: Asymmetrical (Senneh)


Knot density (est.): ≈140–170 KPSI (medium-fine)


Pile: Hand-spun wool


Foundation: Cotton warp & weft


Colors: Black-brown field; camel, coral-red, pistachio green, saffron, ivory details


Age: c. 1975–1990


Weaving time (est.): 2–3 months for one skilled weaver


Condition: Very good vintage—short/medium, even pile; intact sides; minor age tone/abrash; clean


Collectible pictorial hunting scene with deer & birds


Balanced central axis repeating medallions—reads well from a distance


Jewel-tone palette that pairs with both classic and modern interiors


Durable wool pile on cotton foundation for everyday use


Size works for living rooms, studies, music rooms, entry vestibules, or as a striking wall hanging


Care Instructions (wool on cotton, short/medium pile)


Vacuum lightly with suction only (no beater bar).


Blot spills immediately; use cool water and a clean cloth—do not rub.


Use a breathable rug pad to reduce slip and wear.


Rotate 2–3× yearly for even light/wear.


Professional hand wash when needed; avoid steam or harsh chemicals.


This vintage hunting-scene rug is more than décor—it’s a narrative textile packed with symbolism, color mastery, and meticulous handwork. If you’re seeking a statement piece that blends art history with everyday durability, this is the one.