Antique Baluch Balisht, c. Early 19th Century – 1’6” x 3’

Woven in the early 19th century by Baluch nomads in the borderlands of eastern Iran and western Afghanistan, this small-format tribal mat is a rare survivor of its kind. The field is filled with serrated, tree-like motifs rendered in a rhythmic grid, each drawn with subtle variation in a palette of deep madder red, soft camel, and dark walnut brown. The design is framed by narrow borders of stepped diamonds and angular vines, adding structure to this intimate textile.

Likely used as a small floor mat, saddle covering, or tent furnishing, the rug is hand-knotted in wool on a wool foundation and shows significant—but authentic—wear. There are visible areas of pile loss, abrash, and wear to the edges, but the structure remains intact and the pattern powerfully legible. These signs of use only deepen its charm and connection to its nomadic origins.

This is a piece for the serious collector of early tribal textiles or for anyone who appreciates the raw beauty of authentic, lived-in craft. It would display beautifully draped over a bench, hung on a wall, or used in a vignette with rustic wood and earthy textures.

This rug comes from the private collection of a prominent antique rug dealer based in Amherst, Massachusetts, known for curating fine Persian and Oriental carpets over several decades.

has loss and a couple holes in the kelim

Local delivery available for a fee or pick up Westfield MA

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