This is a rare, hand-knotted antique Kurdish rug, approximately 120 years old, measuring 160 by 95 centimeters (roughly 5’3″ x 3’1″). Kurdish weavers from the mountainous regions of northwestern Iran are celebrated for their dense, heavy wool and primitive, deeply symbolic geometric designs.
The design layout is a classic “All-Over Repeating Lattice” pattern, featuring a dense, interlocking grid of small diamonds and stepped crosses that cover the entire field. The lattice is formed by thin, jagged lines in red, creating a honeycomb-like structure that gives the rug a mesmerizing, textured appearance. The field is framed by a robust, multi-tiered border system. The wide main border features a repeating “flower and vine” or “S-hook” pattern, where stylized, eight-petaled flowers in blue and yellow alternate with angular leaves. The inner and outer guard borders feature small, repeating chevron, diamond, and star motifs, which act as a rhythmic, protective frame around the main design.The motifs in this Kurdish rug are deeply symbolic. The repeating diamond lattice represents the earth, the fenced field, and the territory of the tribe, symbolizing enclosure, protection, and a sense of home. The S-hook motifs in the border represent ram’s horns, symbolizing strength, leadership, and wealth (a large flock). The eight-petaled flowers in the border represent the wild roses of the mountains, symbolizing beauty, fertility, and the spring season.
The color palette of this piece is deeply earthy and moody, defined by a dramatic, high-contrast composition. The primary field is a deep, velvety midnight indigo blue, which serves as a dark, absorbing canvas. Overlaying this dark background is a delicate, repeating lattice woven in muted terracotta red and salmon pink, creating a warm, textured grid. The wide main border features a warm camel tan and ivory ground, providing a bright, contrasting frame that makes the dark interior pop. Accents of mustard yellow and charcoal black appear in the border and within the delicate lattice intersections. The rug shows significant age-related wear and a beautiful abrashacross the blue field, confirming its use of natural, hand-prepared vegetable dyes.
Age: ~120 years old (late 19th/early 20th century), a true antique.
Size: 160 x 95 cm (5’3″ x 3’1″), ideal as a small scatter rug, hallway runner, or wall tapestry.
Material: 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool with natural, organic dyes.
Colors: Deep midnight indigo field, terracotta red lattice, camel/ivory border with mustard yellow accents.
Design: Dense “All-Over Repeating Lattice” pattern with a honeycomb grid.
Symbolism: Earth/territory (diamond lattice), ram’s horns/wealth (S-hook border), wild roses/fertility (floral motifs).
Condition: Authentic antique wear with a soft, mellow patina and beautiful natural abrash.
Versatility: Perfect for small spaces, entryways, or as a collector’s wall hanging.
