Semi-antique Serkhat Baluch Shaffi kilim runner from Afghanistan. 273x94 cms

An earthy-toned (slightly aubergine hues) Serkhat Baluch Shaffi kilim with an exceptionally intricate pattern and refined drawing. The complexity of the design is achieved through the weaving of delicate linear motifs — predominantly in white — across a horizontally banded field, creating an effect reminiscent of tartan textiles. The borders echo these same white motifs, arranged in a more vertical direction, framing the composition with remarkable balance and sophistication. The texture is slightly coarse, giving the piece a strong tribal character and an authentic nomadic presence.

Handwoven from 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool, this kilim runner will stand well in a heavy traffic area and combines durability with a beautifully tactile surface.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool
Size: 302 × 135 cm
Origin: Baluch tribe, Afghanistan
Date of weaving: 1950s

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.