A beautiful antique Afghan Baluch hand-knotted wool runner rug with an exceptionally rich and atmospheric palette of deep madder red, aubergine, indigo and burnt orange tones. The field is filled with repeating tribal diamond gul motifs framed by intricate geometric borders, giving the piece a wonderfully rhythmic and architectural appearance. The darker saturated colours and finely drawn tribal patterning give this rug a very sophisticated “old world” feel that works especially well in contemporary interiors leaning toward dark academia, maximalism and collected bohemian spaces.

Hand-knotted in wool with a soft low pile and lovely age-related wear that enhances the character and depth of the colours. Likely originating from the Afghanistan / Khorasan region in the classic Baluch tribal weaving tradition, probably mid 20th century with a good chance of being earlier. The long narrow proportions make it ideal as a hallway runner, bedside rug or layered textile piece in an eclectic interior.

Particularly attractive is the depth of colour and the way the geometric motifs soften slightly with age and wear, giving the rug a far more authentic and decorative appearance than newer tribal weavings. The close-up images show the attractive natural abrash and fine hand-knotted construction.

Overall good antique condition with age related wear consistent with use and age. Some wear to the ends and edges as shown, which adds to the rug’s genuine antique character. Presents beautifully.