Guide
Baluch Rug Guide: Afghan Baluch Tribal Rugs and How to Choose One
Tribal rugs in deep reds, dark blues and warm golds. Where they come from and how to choose one.
Where they come from
Baluch rugs are woven by tribal and village weavers in western Afghanistan and in Khorasan, in northeast Iran. The name comes from the Baluch people, but neighboring groups such as the Timuri and Aimaq weave in the same style, and the trade sells them all as Baluch.
The Baluch rugs we carry are new, hand-knotted in Afghanistan from local wool.
How to recognize one
Most Baluch rugs are dark and rich: madder red, burgundy, navy, brown and black, lit by small touches of ivory. Many newer pieces add gold, rust and orange for a warmer look.
The designs are geometric. Look for rows of small medallions, latticework, hooked shapes and wide borders. Prayer rugs often show a tree of life inside an arch.
Sizes
Baluch weaving is known for small pieces: mats, prayer rugs and scatter rugs from about 2x2 to 4x6. You will also find room sizes up to about 7x10, and narrow runners for halls.
Every listing shows the measured size, so check it against your space before you buy.
How to choose a good one
Good Baluch wool has a soft shine and gentle shifts of color, called abrash. Turn the rug over: a hand-knotted rug shows each knot on the back, and the fringe is the end of the warp threads.
Check that the rug lies flat and the sides run fairly straight. Small irregularities are normal in tribal work and part of its character.
Where a Baluch works
The dark colors hide everyday wear, so a Baluch suits an entry, a study, a bedside or a hallway. A small one also works as a wall hanging or over a larger rug.
Keep it out of strong direct sun, use a thin felt and rubber pad, and vacuum it with suction only.
Questions
Where are Baluch rugs made?
In western Afghanistan and in Khorasan in northeast Iran. The Baluch rugs we sell are new and hand-knotted in Afghanistan.
Why are Baluch rugs so dark?
Weavers traditionally used deep madder reds, indigo blues and natural browns. Dark wool also hides wear, which made sense in tents and village homes.
What sizes do Baluch rugs come in?
Mostly small, from about 2x2 mats to 4x6 scatter rugs. Room sizes up to about 7x10 and narrow runners are also woven.
Do you sell Baluch rugs?
Yes. We carry hand-knotted Baluch rugs and runners from Afghanistan. Every listing shows the measured size and photos, and you can see them at our Chicago and Evanston showrooms.