Vintage Ersari “Bokhara” Gul Rug — 184 × 109 cm (6'0" × 3'7") — Hand-knotted Wool, Deep Red Tribal Geometric

An evocative vintage tribal rug with the classic Ersari/Turkmen gul grid on a saturated madder-red ground. This piece brings the timeless “Bokhara” look—calming repetition, soft hand-spun wool, and lived-in patina that designers love for collected, character-rich spaces.



Weaving tradition & structure.
The rug shows a disciplined, all-over grid of square guls (tribal emblems) separated by narrow guard rails and framed by multiple Herati/“running-dog” and ram’s-horn borders—hallmarks of Ersari Turkmen workshop/tribal production. The back reveals compact, regular knots with moderate warp depression; handle is supple yet sturdy—typical of Afghan wool-on-wool workshop pieces. The knotting reads as symmetric (Turkish/Ghiordes) on a wool foundation with 2 wefts, which is consistent with Ersari practice.

Palette & materials.
Hand-spun highland wool pile on wool warps/woofs. The palette centers on madder red with dark brown/blue-black, olive-to-spring greens, soft mustard, and small magenta accents. The bright pink/magenta note suggests later-20th-century synthetic highlights blended with traditional natural dyes.

Age & condition.
Visual wear is honest and attractive: a softened, lower pile in the traffic line through the center panel and mild age toning; ends are secured, selvedges show original overcasting with minor nicks only. No holes or tears seen. Overall Good vintage condition with even wear and lovely sheen.

Motifs & layout (naqsha).
– Central field: regimented grid of square guls—ancestral tribal insignia symbolizing clan identity and protection.
– Minor ornaments: four-dot “quatrefoil” charms in the corners of each square (amuletic), stepped hooks, and zigzags for strength/continuity.
– Borders: inner meander (running-dog) for endless flow; outer ram’s-horn devices for vitality and prosperity. The strict geometry and repetition create a meditative rhythm—the design theory prized in Turkmen weaving.

Where it fits.
Perfect for layered traditional, eclectic, boho, Japandi-meets-global, and warm modern interiors. Its 3×6 size works brilliantly in entryways, in front of a sofa, between beds, or as a gallery runner alternative.


Features


Origin: Northern Afghanistan, Ersari/Turkmen tradition

Type: Hand-knotted pile rug (“Bokhara” gul design)

Size: 184 cm × 109 cm (approx. 6'0" × 3'7")

Pile: Hand-spun sheep’s wool

Foundation: Wool warps & wefts

Knot type: Symmetric (Ghiordes)

Knot density (est.): ~85–110 KPSI (1,300–1,700 knots/dm²) based on back close-ups

Pile height (est.): Low to low-medium (≈ 3–5 mm), evenly worn

Age: Vintage, c. 1970s–1980s

Condition: Good vintage—uniform wear to field, small age specks, ends secured, edges intact; clean and ready to use

Pattern: Repeating Ersari gul grid with ram’s-horn & running-dog borders

Colors: Madder red, blue-black/brown, olive & spring greens, mustard, small magenta accents

Authentic tribal Ersari/Turkmen gul composition with beautiful repetition

Soft, durable wool-on-wool construction for a warm hand and natural drape

Desirable vintage patina—the lived-in, designer-favorite look

Versatile 3×6 format that suits halls, entries, living rooms, and bedrooms

Hand-knotted durability—made to last for generations

Care instructions

Vacuum gently (suction only; no beater bar).

Rotate every 3–6 months for even wear and sun exposure.

Blot spills immediately; avoid soaking. For deep cleaning, use a professional hand-wash service experienced with hand-knotted wool.

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slippage and extend life.

Keep out of direct, intense sunlight to preserve the reds.


Bring home a genuine vintage Afghan Ersari gul rug with soul, softness, and the calm geometry only handwork can achieve. If you’d like, I can add a custom rug pad or shoot extra close-ups before you decide.