Persian Belouch Circa 1880-90

The elongated and slender shape of a tribal rug not only mirrors the structure of the yurt or tent they resided in but also signifies the practicality of completing the rug amidst the migrations between summer and winter camps. As a result, many rugs are crafted on a smaller scale.
The deep and luxurious aubergine backdrop is elevated by the floating motifs in vibrant madder red, which create a striking contrast against the ivory central medallion and guard borders.
It is believed that two weavers worked side by side to create this rug, and although it may initially appear symmetrical, upon closer inspection, one can discern variations in skill level and the weavers' moods as each new day of weaving unfolded. In the process of restoring a tribal rug like this, it is essential to immerse oneself in the mindset of the weaver—grasping moments of fatigue when the weave becomes looser, moments of stress, or even the dawn of a new day when the rug is beaten down harder, causing tension fluctuations. All these intricate layers weave together to narrate the story behind the rug.
Typically, the dark brown hues have corroded over time due to the iron mordant or 'fixative' used in the dyeing process during that era. This delightful naivety of the rug invites us to observe and appreciate its unique charm.