Area Rug Guide: Afghan Rugs

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The internationally recognized Afghan Rugs are some of the most interesting rugs in the market. Not just because of their distinct designs and patterns, but also because of the story behind each tribal rug made.

Afghan Carpets are traditionally made in Afghanistan by different ethnic groups but usually by Turkmen and also in Pakistan by Afghan refugees that reside in the said area. These unique rugs range from small to medium in size since it was originally used to decorate their homes.

Depending on the type and weaver, its designs can go from traditional and familiar geometric patterns to unique and vibrant patterns. As time has gone by, their designs have transformed especially during the political and religious unrest in the country. Weavers of Afghan Area Rug have incorporated stylized elements of military paraphernalia such as tanks and guns. These are called “war rugs” and are seen especially during the 1980s.

Natural dyes including vegetables are used in producing the rich colors of the Afghan Antique Rug. Its quality also ranges from coarse to medium in weave and it is commonly made from wool.

Afghan or Daulatabad Rugs

This kind of rug is the most commonly associated by people especially from the west whenever Afghan Carpets are mentioned. In addition, it is one of the easiest rugs to find. It is made by Turkmen from Northern Afghanistan.

Its background is usually red and it has a traditional geometric pattern. This pattern is rooted in Islamic teachings where the use of human or animal forms is forbidden. The most common is the Bukhara, which is a gul motif or a large, quartered octagon that is also called “elephant’s foot”. It is commonly shown in columns or rows and framed. It usually comes in two colors: vivid red and very dark blue.

Shindand or Adraskand Rugs

Named after its weavers from Herat in Northwestern Afghanistan, this type of rug is one of the most sought-after Afghan Rugs. Its designs are unique and exotic as well as it is similar to Oriental Rugs.

Baluch Rugs

This popular rug is made by Herat from the Baluch area in West Afghanistan. Since the Baluch people are nomads, this prayer rug is small since it is usually made on portable looms. It measures around 2 feet by 4 feet. Moreover, this rug mostly uses vibrant patterns and prints in red, blue, and brown. It is also made of goat hair and wool, but its modern version uses cotton.

Kilims

This popular and more economical Afghan Rug is a flat-woven one. This can be commonly found and widely available in the United States, specifically in New Mexico. The colors and patterns of the Kilim and the Southwest are a bit alike except for the small slit between different colors in Kilim.

Mauri Rugs

This upscaled version of the Afghan Rug is made of silk wrap compared to the traditional coarse wool. Moreover, this rug has fine knotting as well as a consistent and straight weave. Although it has better quality, it often has contrasting colors.

More than just variety, the Afghan Rugs are deeply rooted in culture as well. Its designs, color, and quality speak a lot about the time and labor being poured on each rug. Having one is surely an honor and it will definitely make your home warmer.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”juicy_pink” border_width=”10″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title=”SHOP AFGHAN RUGS” shape=”square” color=”mulled-wine” size=”lg” align=”center” button_block=”true” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Farsinruggallery.com%2Fpersian-rugs-dallas-texas%2F%3Fswoof%3D1%26pa_origin%3Dafghan|||”][/vc_column][/vc_row]