Discover the Enduring Spirit: Handcrafted Afghan Rugs
While our name celebrates the rich tradition of Persian carpets, we are proud to extend our curated collection to include the distinctive and equally captivating Afghan rugs. These remarkable pieces embody the rugged beauty and deep cultural heritage of Afghanistan, offering a unique aesthetic that complements both traditional and modern interiors.
A Legacy Woven in Wool:
Afghan rugs are primarily hand-knotted by various ethnic groups across Afghanistan, including the Turkmen, Hazaras, Uzbeks, and Baluchis. Their weaving traditions are centuries old, passed down through generations, making each rug a testament to incredible skill and enduring artistry.
Key Characteristics of Authentic Afghan Rugs:
Distinctive Color Palette: Afghan rugs are most recognizable for their rich, warm, and often deep color schemes. Dominant hues include:
Deep Reds: Particularly burgundy and a unique “elephant’s foot” red (often associated with Khal Mohammadi rugs).
Dark Blues: Often navy or almost black.
Earthy Tones: Browns, blacks, and touches of gold/ochre.
These colors are typically achieved using natural, vegetable dyes, ensuring their vibrancy and longevity.
Bold Geometric Patterns: While some feature stylized floral motifs, the most iconic Afghan rug designs are geometric. Common patterns include:
“Guls”: Stylized octagonal or hexagonal medallions, often arranged in repetitive rows, resembling elephant footprints (especially in Bokhara or Khal Mohammadi designs).
Tribal Motifs: Reflecting the specific heritage and symbols of the weaving tribes.
Lattices and Rectangular Patterns: Creating strong, defined visual structures.
High-Quality Wool: Afghan rugs are predominantly made from 100% hand-spun wool, often from local Ghazni sheep, known for its softness, durability, and lustrous sheen. Some finer pieces may incorporate silk accents or even a silk blend for added luxury.
Dense and Durable Pile: These rugs are known for their sturdy, tight knotting and often a relatively thick pile, making them exceptionally durable and long-lasting, perfect for high-traffic areas.
Hand-Knotted Authenticity: Every Afghan rug in our collection is meticulously hand-knotted, a testament to the artisan’s dedication and skill. You can often discern the irregularities of hand-tied knots on the back of the rug, a hallmark of genuine craftsmanship.
Popular Types of Afghan Rugs You’ll Find:
Khal Mohammadi: Named after a master weaver, these are arguably the most famous, known for their deep red backgrounds and repeating gul (elephant’s foot) motifs in dark blue or black.
Baluchi Rugs: Woven by the nomadic Baluch people, these often have darker, more somber palettes with intricate tribal patterns, frequently used as prayer rugs.
Mori Bokhara: While the “Bokhara” style is also woven in Uzbekistan, Afghan Mori Bokharas are distinct, featuring the classic octagonal gul pattern.
Shindand / Adraskan: Known for their more abstract, often warped depictions of humans and animals, originating from the Herat Province.
“War Rugs”: A unique and poignant category that emerged from the conflicts of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, depicting military themes and modern weaponry (while we may or may not carry these, it’s a significant part of Afghan rug history).
Why an Afghan Rug for Your Home?
An Afghan rug is more than just a floor covering; it’s a piece of living history, a work of tribal art, and a testament to enduring resilience. Its warm colors and bold designs can ground a room, add a touch of exotic elegance, and provide unparalleled comfort and durability for generations.
Explore our curated selection of genuine Afghan rugs below and bring a piece of their captivating story into your home.
