Vintage Baluch Rug 133 x 76 cm | Hand-Knotted Red Wool Tribal Mihrab Rug | Narrow Hallway Entryway Rug

This authentic hand-knotted prayer-style rug is a classic Baluch/Baloch weaving from the Afghanistan–Pakistan border tradition, recognizable by its elongated proportions, saturated madder-red field, and the mihrab (prayer-niche) layout. The calm central panel is framed by intricate guard borders of repeating “gul”/diamond motifs, creating a strong architectural look that reads beautifully in a hallway, entry, bedside, or layered boho setting.

At the head of the field, the stepped arch and suspended pendant/lamp motif reference devotion and “light” symbolism, while the small geometric rosettes and crisp border rhythm act as protective patterning—meant to visually “guard” the space. The pile looks low and dense in the close-ups, giving it that refined, slightly velvety tribal finish that wears well and sits nicely underfoot.

Features

Size: 133 cm x 76 cm (approx. 4.4 ft x 2.5 ft)

Weave: Hand-knotted pile rug (prayer / mihrab design)

Weaving tradition: Baluch/Baloch tribal tradition (Afghanistan–Pakistan region)

Knot structure: Knot type is not clearly visible in the provided photos; this tradition commonly uses an
asymmetrical knot, but I can’t confirm 100% without a clear back/knot close-up

Materials: Wool pile; foundation appears cotton (white fringe and base structure suggest cotton)

Pile height: Low pile (approx. 3–5 mm) with a compact, firm handle

Density (est.): Fine tribal weave, roughly ~80–120 knots per square inch (visual estimate based on line sharpness and motif detail)

Color palette: Deep red field with ivory/cream, navy/indigo, and small accents of green and warm neutrals

Motifs: Mihrab/prayer niche, hanging pendant/lamp, geometric rosettes/stars, repeating gul/diamond borders, protective guard stripes

Condition: Very good vintage condition overall; light, even surface wear consistent with age; slight edge waviness from handling/storage; fringe present with minor unevenness (see close-ups). No obvious large repairs visible in the photos

Care Instructions

Vacuum gently on low suction (no beater bar), especially along the fringe.
Rotate every few months for even wear and sunlight balance.
Spot-clean with cold water and a wool-safe cleaner—blot, don’t rub.
Avoid soaking. For a deeper clean, use a professional rug wash (not steam cleaning).
A thin rug pad is recommended to prevent shifting and to protect the knots.

If you want a compact, character-rich piece that instantly adds warmth and structure—this one delivers the classic prayer-rug architecture in a versatile runner size, perfect for entryways, beside the bed, reading corners, or layered over larger neutrals.