Vintage Andean Llama Kilim Rug, Handwoven Peruvian Wool Tapestry

This joyful Andean kilim is a burst of colour and storytelling in wool. Handwoven in the folk-art tradition of the highland villages, it shows stylized llamas framed by dancers in traditional dress, creating a playful narrative that instantly warms any space. At 150 x 107 cm (about 4.9 x 3.5 feet), it’s the perfect size for a cozy accent rug or a statement wall hanging.

Woven entirely by hand using a flat-weave tapestry technique, this piece belongs to the South American / Andean weaving tradition rather than the knotted-pile rugs of Central and West Asia. The construction is clearly visible in the close-ups: tight, interlocking wefts with no cut pile, and a braided/corded fringe where the warps extend beyond the field.

The central panel is divided into four compartments, each featuring a stylized llama with a small pack saddle – a classic Andean symbol of livelihood, trade and mobility. Between the panels runs a small band of abstracted “eye” or “leaf” motifs that echo traditional protective symbols. Around this scene is a wide border filled with dancing figures in hats and full skirts, likely referencing village fiesta dances. The repetition of people and animals around the field gives a strong sense of community and celebration.

The palette is instantly eye-catching: warm pumpkin orange and ochre form the ground, contrasted with turquoise, sky blue, magenta, cream, soft brown and charcoal outlines. The dyes appear to be later 20th-century synthetic colours, which is normal for Andean village pieces from this period and explains the vivid, slightly pop-art feel. The wool yarns look hand-spun to semi-commercial, with subtle thickness variation that gives beautiful texture.

From the even wear, intact structure and style of dyes, this rug can be dated confidently to the late 20th century, roughly 1970s–1990s. It has no visible maker’s signature, which is typical for village workshop production, but the balanced drawing and consistent weaving show an experienced hand.

Overall condition is very good vintage: the flat weave lies nicely and remains supple. I can see:

Minor age-related softening of colours and a little abrash (natural tonal variation) across some orange and blue areas.

Slight irregularities at the edges and a bit of fringe loss/unevenness, especially at one end.

No visible holes, major stains, or structural repairs in the photos provided.

It’s ready to be enjoyed as a floor accent in a low-to-medium traffic area, or hung as textile art where its storybook characters can really be appreciated.

Features:

Origin: Andean region, most likely Peru (village / workshop production)

Weaving tradition: South American flat-weave tapestry / kilim

Age: Vintage, approx. 30–50 years (c. 1970s–1990s)

Dimensions: 150 cm x 107 cm

Approx. 4.9 ft x 3.5 ft

Construction: Handwoven flat-weave (no cut pile)

Knot structure: Not knotted; tapestry interlocking wefts on wool warps, so KPSI does not apply

Weave density (approx.): Medium; around 6–8 weft passes per cm (15–20 per inch) based on the close-up texture

Materials:

Pile/face: 100% wool yarn

Foundation: Wool warps and wefts

Dyes: Likely synthetic/chrome dyes typical for late 20th-century Andean village work

Pile height: Flat (low profile, easy to walk over and place furniture on)

Condition: Very good vintage – light age patina, small edge and fringe irregularities, no major damage visible

Sides & ends:

Sides: Original selvedges in good condition with mild wear

Ends: Exposed warp fringe, a bit uneven and worn but stable

Authentic vintage Andean / Peruvian kilim with strong folk-art character

Playful pictorial design featuring llamas and dancers in traditional dress

Warm, saturated palette of orange, aqua, magenta, cream and brown – perfect for boho and eclectic interiors

Versatile size for entryway, bedside, office, studio or nursery

Flat-weave construction makes it lightweight and ideal as a wall hanging

100% wool on wool for natural warmth, durability and a beautiful hand feel

Handwoven one-of-a-kind textile – no two pieces are ever identical

Care Instructions

Use a rug pad if placing on the floor to prevent slipping and reduce wear.

Vacuum gently with suction only (no beater bar/rotating brush) and always in the direction of the weave.

Rotate the rug every few months to promote even wear and sun exposure.

Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth – do not rub.

For deeper cleaning, use a professional rug cleaner experienced with flat-weave wool textiles; avoid steam cleaning or harsh chemicals.

If hanging on a wall, support the rug evenly along the top edge using a sleeve or textile-safe clips to avoid stress points.



This cheerful llama kilim brings a little Andean fiesta spirit into your home – it’s part rug, part storybook. Whether you style it in a boho living room, a colourful kids’ space, or hang it as art above a sofa or bed, it will add warmth, personality and an instant conversation point.