Hand-Knotted Wool Runner Rug – Folk Art Animal Border, Colorful Boho Hallway

This pictorial runner is a true conversation piece: a playful, story-like design framed by rows of long-neck animal figures on an ivory ground, with a central “totem” panel of birds, stylized faces, and bold geometric creatures. The palette is crisp and happy (cobalt/denim blues, brick red, lilac, sage, charcoal, and warm browns), so it reads both folk-art and modern at the same time.

From the close-up and fold photos, the surface shows a real pile (not printed), with clean color changes and a soft, flexible hand. The ends show traditional flatwoven/kilim-style finishes with small fringe, a detail commonly seen on village/workshop hand-knotted pieces. Overall, it looks contemporary (late 20th–early 21st century) due to the saturated, even dyes and the very fresh condition.

Visual analysis & authentication (based strictly on the photos)

Weaving tradition: Pile rug with kilim-finished ends—typical of Anatolian/Turkish-style workshop and village production for runners.

Knot structure: The exact knot (symmetrical vs asymmetrical) is not visible because the back is not shown. Based on the finishing and regional look, it is most likely a symmetrical (Turkish/Ghiordes-type) knot, but I can’t claim it as “confirmed” without a clear back photo.

Regional origin (best visual match): Anatolian/Turkish-style pictorial folk runner (animal-border + totem-panel layout).

Age period: Contemporary / newer weaving (colors are bright and consistent; pile looks even; no oxidation or heavy patina visible).

Maker’s marks/signature: None visible in the provided images.

Pile height & density: Low-to-medium pile (approx. 6–8 mm visually). Motif edges are fairly crisp, suggesting medium density—roughly 80–120 knots per square inch (estimated range).

Materials & dyes: Wool pile is strongly suggested by the texture and sheen; foundation is likely cotton (common for this construction), but the foundation fiber cannot be verified without a back photo. Dyes appear modern/commercial (bright pastels and very uniform blocks).

Pattern & cultural reading (motifs you can actually see)

Animal border: Repeating long-neck herd animals (often read as camel/goat/deer forms in folk weaving) symbolize livelihood, protection, and abundance in many pastoral weaving cultures.

Central “story panel”: Stacked registers of birds and stylized figures—this is a classic folk-art approach: designs are arranged like a narrative strip rather than a single medallion.

Protective geometry: The repeated small “arrow/branch” forms and sharp zig motifs function visually like protective markings (warding/guardian forms), even when woven today for decorative use.

Border-to-field relationship: The ivory field acts as a clean frame so the animals read clearly, while the central panel concentrates the story motifs and anchors the runner visually in a hallway.

Condition (honest)

Overall: Very good, clean presentation.

Wear: No obvious balding, thinning, or heavy traffic wear visible.

Edges/ends: Ends show intact woven finish and light fringe; no major fraying visible in the photos.

Repairs: None visible.

Features

Size: 169 cm x 57 cm (approx. 66.5" x 22.4")

Type: Handmade hand-knotted pile runner with kilim-finished ends

Materials: Wool pile (foundation fiber not fully verifiable from photos; likely cotton)

Pile Height: Approx. 6–8 mm (low/medium)

Knot Density (estimated): ~80–120 KPSI (range estimate based on clarity of motifs)

Design: Pictorial folk-art panel with birds & stylized figures + repeating animal border

Colors: Ivory base, cobalt/denim blue, brick red, lilac, sage/teal, charcoal, tan, brown

Age: Contemporary (late 20th–early 21st century look)

Condition: Very good; no visible repairs; ends and edges appear stable

Best For: Hallway, entry, kitchen runner, bedside, kids room, eclectic gallery wall styling (also works as a decorative hanging if you choose)

Care Instructions

Vacuum gently (no beater bar) and rotate occasionally for even wear. Spot clean with cold water and a small amount of wool-safe soap; blot—don’t scrub. Avoid soaking and avoid strong bleach/alkaline cleaners. Use a rug pad to prevent slipping and to protect the foundation. For a deep clean, choose a professional who handles hand-knotted wool rugs.

This runner is perfect if you want something authentic and handmade but still bold, graphic, and interior-designer friendly—an instant upgrade for narrow spaces that usually get ignored. If you’d like, share a quick photo of your hallway/space and I’ll suggest the best orientation and styling colors (pillows/throws/art) to match it.