This is a hand-knotted antique Khamse (Khamseh) rug, originating from the Khamse tribal confederation in the Fars province of southwestern Iran. The Khamse confederation historically consisted of five tribes: the Arab, Basseri, Ainalu, Baharlu, and Nafar. This rug is approximately 100 years old, dating to the early 1920s, and measures 175 by 110 centimeters, which is roughly 5 feet 9 inches by 3 feet 7 inches. This size makes it a small-to-medium area rug or long runner, ideal for a hallway, a small living space, alongside a bed, or as a decorative wall hanging. The rug is constructed entirely of hand-spun wool using natural dyes, and its age is evident in the deep, mellow patina and the distinctive abrash (color variation) across the field.
Origin: Khamseh-Zanjan hybrid (circa 1920s), nomadic Persian artistry from elite weaving villages
Material: Finest hand-spun natural wool on cotton foundation; ultra-fine knot count for silky texture and resilience
Design: Stunning elongated “Khamseh” style with central chain of diamond medallions, flanked by reciprocal floral vines, herati patterns, and palmettes in profound indigo, sumptuous crimson, burnished copper, celadon green, and bone white; opulent triple borders with geometric guards
The color palette of this antique Khamse rug is bold, dramatic, and highly saturated, characteristic of the finest tribal weaving from the Fars province. The primary field color is a deep, vibrant madder red or rust red, which provides a warm, inviting background for the intricate geometric pattern. The large central motif is woven in a contrasting deep indigo blue or navy blue, creating a striking visual anchor. The motifs within the field and borders are accented in ivory or cream, light teal blue, mustard yellow, and touches of forest green. The main border features a red ground with repeating geometric floral motifs in blue, ivory, and yellow, creating a rhythmic frame around the interior field. There is a noticeable abrash across the red field and blue motif—horizontal bands of lighter and darker color—which is a highly desirable feature that confirms the use of hand-spun wool and natural, organic dyes.
This 100-year-old Khamse rug appears to be in excellent antique condition. The pile is low but even, showing a soft, lustrous patina that is highly desirable to collectors and rug enthusiasts. There are no visible holes, tears, or significant wear spots. The natural abrash gives the rug a textured, handmade appearance that cannot be replicated by modern machine-made rugs. The fringes are intact and secure, showing the natural variation in length typical of hand-knotted rugs of this age. The side edges (selvages) are secure and straight, and the overall structure of the rug is sound. This rug is robust enough for floor use in low-to-medium traffic areas and elegant enough for wall display.
Age: 100 years old (circa early 1920s), a true antique.
Size: 175 x 110 cm (5’9″ x 3’7″), a small-to-medium area rug or long runner.
Material: 100% hand-spun wool with natural, organic dyes.
Colors: Rich madder/rust red field, deep indigo/navy blue central motif, ivory, light teal blue, mustard yellow, and forest green accents.
Design: Highly stylized, geometric “niche” or “Tree of Life” layout with a large, lobed central motif.
Pattern: Central motif with three floral rosettes; all-over field with boteh, floral, and leaf motifs; main border with repeating “flower and vine” pattern.
Symbolism: Tree of Life/Mihrab (spiritual guidance), sun/moon/stars (three rosettes), protective teeth/latch-hooks (ward off evil eye), life/vitality (red field), night sky (blue motif), wild roses (floral motifs).
Condition: Excellent antique condition with even low pile, secure edges, and full, intact fringes.
Abrash: Natural color variation confirms authentic, hand-prepared natural dyes.
Versatility: Ideal for hallway, small living space, alongside a bed, or as a decorative wall hanging.
