Rug And MoreTea

Balooch, 90 Years Old, 118*80 cm

This small-format antique Balooch rug, measuring 118 by 80 centimeters, is a striking example of tribal minimalism and bold geometric graphic design, dating approximately 90 years old. The color palette is remarkably earthy and dramatic.

The design is a classic “double medallion” layout, featuring a vertical alignment of two large, identical stepped octagonal medallions. These medallions have jagged, latch-hook edges that extend outward, creating a sturdy, fortress-like shape. Inside each octagon sits a smaller, complex geometric core featuring a four-pointed cross or star in golden yellow. The negative space between the medallions and the borders is not empty; it is filled with chevron stripes and stepped geometric filler motifs in dark brown and red. The rug is framed by a multi-tiered border system, featuring a wide main border with a repeating “S-hook” or “Running Dog” pattern in ivory and brown, flanked by narrow guard borders with small diamond and chevron motifs.

The color palette of this rug is deeply earthy, featuring a rich, warm terracotta or rust-red field that serves as a vibrant background. The large geometric medallions are woven in a contrasting deep chocolate brown and midnight navy, creating a bold, high-contrast visual. The central focal points of the medallions are accented with a bright golden mustard yellow, which pops vividly against the dark blue and brown. The outer borders are framed in dark brown and black, with small repeating motifs in cream or ivory, providing a crisp outline that contains the interior pattern. There is a subtle abrash (color variation) across the red field, indicating the use of natural, hand-prepared dyes.
Provenance: Antique Balooch (Baluch) tribal rug.
Age: 90 years old.
Size: 118 x 80 cm (3’10” x 2’7″).
Colors: Rich chocolate brown/black field, copper-brown and rust octagons, golden-ochre crosses, dark brown and ivory border.
Pattern: Bold, double-octagonal medallion design with central radiant crosses.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with beautiful natural abrash.