Hand-Knotted Turkoman Gul Rug – Ersari Wool Hall Runner

Meet a classic of Central Asian nomad art. This compact hand-knotted Turkoman/Ersari rug (about 150 × 88 cm / 4.9 × 2.9 ft) carries a saturated madder-red field set with orderly rows of guls—the tribal emblem used for centuries by Turkoman weavers. Dark indigo borders with diamond ashik rosettes frame the field, while tiny white highlights sparkle across the surface for lively contrast. The handle, colors, and construction point to north-western Afghanistan workshop/tribal production, a dependable weaving tradition prized for durable wool and balanced geometry.


Weaving tradition & knotting.
Close-ups show a firmly packed, slightly depressed weft and a low, even pile—hallmarks of Afghan Ersari/Turkoman work. The back reveals compact knot nodes that present as asymmetrical (Senneh) knots on a wool foundation, typical for village/tribal Afghan pieces (as opposed to Pakistani “Mori” carpets that often use cotton foundations and a higher count).

Origin cues in the pattern.

Repeating octagonal/diamond guls with cruciform centers and small satellite diamonds = Ersari family variants.

The main border carries continuous ashik diamonds with stepped outlines; inner/outer guards use running-water and small latch-hook motifs—another Ersari signature.

Palette: madder red, indigo/near-black, walnut brown, with small ivory dots—an Afghan dyestuff range.

Age & condition.
Surface shows gentle, honest use: light oxidation on the dark outlines, mild abrash (natural dye shade shifts), and a short/medium-low pile from age-appropriate wear. Selvedges are straight; fringes original with minor loss. No blatant re-weaves; one or two small, toned spots consistent with careful vintage use. Overall: very good vintage condition, lies flat.

Materials.

Pile: fine, oily hand-spun wool (good lanolin sheen).

Foundation: wool warp & weft (observed at fringe/underside).

Dyes: traditional natural/low-impact dyes (madder, indigo, walnut), evidenced by abrash and non-synthetic tonality.

Motifs & cultural reading.

Gul (tribal emblem): identity, strength, protection.

Ashik diamonds in the border: continuity, journey, and the protective frame around the “field.”

Tiny cross/eye dots: apotropaic (warding-off) details often sprinkled through Turkoman layouts.
The naqsha (design theory) is a repeat lattice—three vertical columns of guls with small filler devices aligning on a grid, creating rhythm and balance ideal for narrow spaces.

Features:

Type: Afghan Turkoman/Ersari hand-knotted rug

Size: 150 × 88 cm (4.9 × 2.9 ft)

Knotting: Asymmetrical (Senneh) on wool foundation

KPSI: estimated 90–110 (tribal medium density)

Pile height: ~4–6 mm (short/medium-low, evenly worn)

Warp/Weft: wool / wool

Colors: madder red field; deep indigo, walnut, ivory accents

Age: late 20th c. (1970s–1980s)

Time to weave: approx. 2–3 months by one weaver

Condition: Very good vintage—even pile; intact sides; light age patina; minor fringe wear; clean and ready to use

Iconic Turkoman gul repeat—instantly recognizable, collectible

Balanced, narrow-runner proportions perfect for entry, hallway, office, or bedside

Supple handle with durable tribal wool—made to last

Natural dye abrash adds depth and authenticity

Versatile palette pairs with modern, rustic, boho, Japandi, and mid-century spaces

Care Instructions

Vacuum lightly with suction only (no beater bar).

Rotate 2–3× per year for even wear and light exposure.

Address spills immediately: blot (don’t rub) with a clean, absorbent cloth.

Use a breathable rug underlay to prevent slip and reduce friction.

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


Bring home a time-tested classic of Central Asian nomad design. This compact Ersari gul rug delivers saturated color, graphic geometry, and the quiet confidence of true handwork—equally at ease grounding an entry or adding character beneath a console.