One-of-a-kind

Afshar Shahre BabakHand KnottedRug

Black / Brown152 x 200 cm

The Afshar Shahre Babak rugs originate from the nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes of the Middle East, a region with a storied history of weaving. The Afshar people have long been known for their resilient and distinctively patterned textiles, which reflect their migratory heritage and the cultural traditions of their homeland.

Technical excellence is at the heart of the Afshar tradition, characterised by the use of sturdy foundations and high-quality wool. The term Shahre Babak refers to a specific region known for producing some of the most refined examples of these tribal rugs, where the weaving techniques have been passed down through generations to ensure consistent quality and character.

Visually, these rugs are celebrated for their bold geometric language. The central medallions, often diamond-shaped or stepped, are frequently surrounded by smaller stylised floral or animal motifs that tell a story of the weaver's environment. The deep, dark-red and black colour palette is a hallmark of the region, achieved through traditional dyeing methods that provide a depth of colour that ages beautifully.

These rugs are highly valued by collectors because they represent a living history of tribal artistry. Owning an Afshar piece is an investment in cultural heritage, as the combination of unique tribal motifs and the demanding manual labour required for their creation makes each rug a distinct expression of human skill that remains relevant in modern interiors.

This rug is meticulously hand-knotted, a process that requires immense skill and dedication from the artisan. With a density of 250,000 knots per m2, the creation of this 3.04 m2 piece involves a staggering total of approximately 760,000 individually tied knots. This level of precision is what defines the rug's exceptional durability and the sharp clarity of its intricate geometric patterns.

The labour-intensive nature of this craft means that a rug of this size and complexity represents months of focused work. By carefully knotting every single strand, the weaver ensures a dense and resilient pile that is built to withstand everyday use while retaining its aesthetic integrity for years to come.

The substantial weight of 7.6 kg is a clear indicator of the generous amount of high-quality wool used in its construction. This weight not only enhances the rug's feel and presence on the floor but also serves as a testament to the uncompromising material quality and the depth of labour invested by the artisan.