Antique Serkhat Baluch Shaffi kilim from Afghanistan. 378x100 cms

An exceptional and possibly one of the finest antique Serkhat Baluch Shaffi kilims we have encountered. The wool has been spun to an extraordinary degree of fineness, allowing for an exceptionally intricate pattern and highly refined drawing. The complexity of the design is achieved through delicate linear motifs — predominantly in white — woven across a horizontally banded field, creating a subtle tartan-like effect. The borders echo these same white motifs, arranged in a more vertical rhythm, framing the composition with remarkable balance and sophistication. In this particular example, the execution of the white linear detailing reaches an outstanding level of precision, with a refinement rarely seen in comparable Shaffi kilims.

The natural dyes are of superb quality and include an exceptional emerald blue-green tone, a colour typically associated only with 19th-century or earlier flatweaves from this region.

With its extremely fine weave, high-grade wool, and highly sophisticated design, this piece was undoubtedly treasured by both its original weaver and subsequent owners. It has survived in pristine, near-mint condition, preserved exactly as it emerged from the loom.

Handwoven from 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool, this kilim runner is highly durable and well suited to areas of heavy traffic, while offering a refined and elegant aesthetic.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool
Size: 378×100 cm
Origin: Baluch tribe, Afghanistan
Date of weaving: 1880-1900s

Shaffi Kilims

The western regions of Baluchistan — stretching through the Chagai province of Pakistan towards Kandahar and the fringes of the Sind Desert — have long been renowned for producing some of the finest nomadic flatweaves. Shaffi kilims are especially prized for their subtle sophistication and finely woven structure.

Their colour palette ranges from luminous to earthy tones, traditionally achieved using natural dyes such as madder root reds and warm orange hues created by overdyeing madder with preparations made from pomegranate skins or yoghurt. The finest examples were traditionally used as covers for bedding and clothing stacked at the back of nomadic tents.

Shaffi kilims are easily recognised by their finely woven white borders, featuring rows of tiny motifs that extend gracefully into the plainweave bands of the field — a hallmark of their distinctive craftsmanship and tribal identity.