Semi-antique Baluch kilim from Afghanistan. 302x135 cms

A 1950s Baluch Shaffi  kilim with a very elaborate pattern and drawing. The complexity in the pattern is achieved by weaving mainly in white on a horizontally  banded kilim, creating a tartan like effect. The borders are woven by using the same withe patterns in a somehow more vertical direction. The texture is rough and has a superb tribal feeling. The kilim is faded except for one of the ends. 

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size:302×135 cms

Origin: Baluch tribe, Afghanistan

Date of weaving: 1950s

Within the Changai province of Pakistan, and eastwards to Kandahar and the edges of the Sind Desert, lies the Western part of Baluchistan. This area has long produced fine nomadic flatweaves. The colour of the field is bright, of ligth madder root and red and orange creating by overdying madder red with a concoction made from pomegranate skins or yoghurt. The finest are used as covers for bedding and clothing stacked at the back of the tent. These are shaffi, recognizable by their very finely woven borders of white wool with rows of tiny motifs running into the plainweave bands of the field.