Posted on: October 27, 2020
Vintage Balouchi Carpet
Woven by a Balouch tribeswoman in the 1930s, this 3′ x 4’4″ vintage Balouchi carpet remains in excellent condition. Her elegant geometric pattern came about improvisationally within the visual literacy of her community. The amalgamation of these design motifs unite in an intricate and sophisticated execution with an exceptionally fine weave and beautifully balanced colors.
The pile of this Persian Balouchi carpet is composed of naturally dyed, handspun wool. This ensures that the textile’s colors age splendidly like a patina. Its rich golds and cool reds derive from safflower seed and cochineal respectively. Indigo plants color the dark blue wool. This golden mustard hue is unique to Balouchi rugs. Its color alongside the strong red demonstrates the remnants of the historical Chinese influence from the Mongol era in the thirteenth century.
These natural dyes enhance the carpet’s all-over geometric design. The field is full of various angular floral motifs. They are given order stylistically by a latticework of crosses and linked squares. Furthermore, the most prominent border design is a form that resembles an important decorative handicraft of the Balouch people. It is a mixture of woven fibers and beads placed at the home’s entrance. The intention is to ward off any bad energy from entering the house. This way the home remains a sacred space filled with good spirits.
Find this one-of-a-kind, hand-knotted Persian carpet on Orley Shabahang’s 1stdibs page. If you are a lover all things unique and vintage, visit Orley Shabahang’s website or a retailer near you!
