Handwoven Afshar oriental rug, Middle East, 1950s

The hand-knotted oriental Afshar rug was made in the city of Kerman, southeastern Iran, during the 1950s. Dyed in shades of deep red, burgundy, beige, and blue, Afshar rugs are a type of traditional Persian rug woven by the Afshar tribe, which historically inhabited southeastern Iran, particularly the Kerman region. These rugs are prized for their unique patterns, vibrant colours, and high-quality craftsmanship. They often feature geometric designs, including motifs such as rhombuses, hexagons, and other regular shapes. Plant and tree motifs are also common. Many Afshar rugs feature a central medallion or symmetrical repeating pattern, which is more austere and geometric than those found in rugs from cities like Isfahan or Kashan. The patterns often evoke tribal life, everyday objects, and nature. Another popular design features a large centrepiece with one or more geometric medallions, which some believe symbolises stretched skin. The colours are saturated and lustrous. Deep shades of indigo, carnelian, saffron, and ochre dominate. Obtained from natural dyes, these give Afshar rugs depth and richness. They are typically made of high-quality wool, which is hand-spun. The warp can be wool or cotton. The use of wool gives the rugs softness and strength, making them very durable. The knot used in weaving Afshar rugs is a symmetrical knot, which adds strength and makes the rugs more compact and durable. The knot density is usually lower than in urban rugs like Isfahan, giving them a more rustic character. Due to the nomadic lifestyle of the Afshar, these rugs often reflect a rugged aesthetic associated with tribal traditions, giving them an authentic, ethnic character. The rug is in original vintage condition. It shows signs of age-related wear, minor fabric imperfections, and abrasions. Before shipping, the rug will be professionally cleaned and ready for use. The colours of the products shown in the photos may differ slightly from the actual ones. This is due to individual monitor settings and lighting conditions – the photos were taken in artificial light, which may affect the perception of colours. However, we strive to ensure that the photos reflect the actual appearance of the product as faithfully as possible. The offer may include photos of the item in the living space, but these are for illustrative purposes only.