Introducing the exquisite Afghan Bakshaish Tribal Rug, a true masterpiece in the world of antique rugs. This rug originates from Afghanistan, specifically from the Ghazni Province in the southeast. The area's mountainous terrain naturally produces longer staple, oily wool, making it ideal for carpet weaving.

Crafted by talented ethnic Turkmen weavers, many of whom belong to the Esari Subtribe, this rug reflects their exceptional skill and expertise. The wool used in this rug is sourced from sheep in the Ghazni Province and then brought to the western side of Afghanistan. Here, the wool is meticulously hand carted and hand spun into carpet yarn of exceptional quality.

Woven using traditional floor looms in the weavers' homes, this rug exhibits the authentic charm of cottage industry craftsmanship. The weaving technique employed is the asymmetrical "Persian" knot, resulting in a truly unique pattern. The foundation of the rug consists of cotton warp and weft, while the pile is made entirely of wool.

One notable feature of this rug is its double wefted composition, with a heavily packed and depressed warp. These qualities contribute to the rug's exceptional durability and make it one of the most long-lasting handwoven carpets available today.

The design of the Afghan Bakshaish Tribal Rug showcases a beautiful combination of elements. The background is a rich navy, contrasting elegantly with a rust-colored border. The main color scheme revolves around shades of blue, imparted by natural indigo dyes. Indigofera tinctoria, or true indigo, has a rich history dating back thousands of years and has been widely used around the world to achieve vibrant blue hues.

With a size of 9'4" x 11'8", this rug is generously proportioned, making it an ideal centerpiece for any room. The knots per square inch measure 104, revealing the meticulous attention to detail that went into creating this masterpiece. In fact, our calculations indicate that this rug boasts a remarkable 1,618,582 individually hand-tied knots in total.

Indulge in the beauty and cultural heritage of the Afghan Bakshaish Tribal Rug, a testament to the talent and artistry of the Turkmen weavers. Embrace the rich colors, the durability, and the history imbued in this exceptional piece, and let it add a touch of elegance to your home.