Tribal Heritage and Knotting Tradition

This vintage rug belongs to the Turkoman tribal tradition. The Ersari, one of the major Turkmen tribes of Central Asia, are associated with the nomadic lands between Merv and Mazar-i-Sharif. Ersari weaving is known for its sturdy construction and the geometric Gül motif — the octagonal tribal medallions that run in rows across the field.

This piece was hand-knotted in northern Afghanistan, c. 1960s–1970s, from 100 % virgin wool on a wool foundation. The field carries eight large octagonal Güls on a deep rust-red ground; the notable feature is the wide border system — a cassette frame of square panels, each holding a star rosette or medallion in light blue, ivory, olive-green and indigo, surrounded by further meander and floral guard stripes.

Colour and Composition

The base colour shifts between brick and rust depending on the light. Against this warm ground, the multiple borders bring a lively palette for a Turkoman piece: soft light blue, ivory, olive-green and deep indigo animate the cassette panels and star rosettes, with touches of salmon and madder red. The pile is dense wool with a slightly lustrous handle.

The “Gentlemen’s Carpet”

Ersari rugs became known in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as “Gentlemen’s Carpets” and were a popular choice for the wood-panelled libraries and smoking rooms of British villas and estates. Their warm earth tones and octagonal Gül patterns suit book-lined, dark-wood interiors to this day.

Presence in the Room

At 215 × 293 cm (6.3 m²) this is a large-format rug. Three contexts in which it comes into its own:

• Library or study: the traditional home of the Gentlemen’s Carpet — pairing with leather, dark wood and books.
• Living room: grounding a sofa group, the rust-red ground and lively borders add warmth and tribal character.
• Modern or industrial interior: the geometric Güls and rich borders contrast with concrete, steel and reduced contemporary furniture.

Specifications

Djoharian — Since 1967

With roots in the Grand Carpet Bazaar of Tehran and more than five decades of experience in the international rug trade, Djoharian has specialised in antique, tribal and designer rugs since 1967. Djoharian is also a Label STEP certified dealer for fair-trade knotted rugs (new production).

Service and Delivery

Every piece is expertly inspected in our atelier in Lohr am Main before dispatch. For expert washing and repair we offer our own professional rug cleaning service. We offer secure and fast worldwide shipping, fully insured, and personal consultation in our showroom or by video call.