Semi-antique Turkman Ersari rug from Afghanistan. 88x66 cms

An intriguing semi-antique Turkmen Ersari rug. At first glance, the design—typically associated with much larger rugs—might lead you to believe that this is a substantial piece. In fact, it is a wonderfully tiny rug. Unusually, the weaver chose a design traditionally found on large Ersari rugs and adapted it to this charming little format.

The main field is dominated by two exceptionally large güls, occupying almost the entire field. One can imagine the weaver having been inspired by a large Ersari rug she had seen and borrowing its design for this diminutive piece.

The wool is exceptionally soft and lustrous, with a full, shiny pile that feels wonderfully luxurious underfoot. Its small size makes it particularly well suited beside a bed, where it can warmly welcome you as you step out of bed barefoot.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool   

Size: 88×66 cms

Origin: Ersari tribes from Afghanistan

Date of weaving: 1940s

Ersari (Turkmen: Ärsary, where Er – brave man, master; sari – light, bright, yellow) are one of the major tribes of the Turkmen people of Central Asia and one of the five major tribes of the country of Turkmenistan. They live mainly in Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.. Regarding their rugs and contrary to the custom of the other Turkmen, the Ersaris have no proper gul, or specific tribal motif.

Ersari carpets make more use of yellow than do rugs made by other tribes, and often, in backgrounds, two shades of blue blend or are merged with dark brown in a characteristic fashion.