Khamseh rug, early 20th century

Measurements: 124cm x 76cm (4’1 × 2’6)

63 Knots per inch

Price: £180

A lovely affordable tribal rug with good age, this little Khamseh is delightful with it’s silky wool and well balanced colours. The deep red field contrasts with the light blue spandrels which intrude into each corner and on each side. The boteh are particularly pleasing, note how in the corners they face away from each other at the bottom but at the top they are looking in towards each other. These details always provoke some thought and gives tribal pieces more interest than workshop pieces. The rest of the field is crammed with floral motifs that have some symmetry but also variation. A great little rug that I think has improved with age.

Condition:

Both ends have some loss and the rug is quite worn. I think the wear adds to this rugs look which isn’t always the case.