Earth-Toned Undyed Wool Striped Kilim, Persia (c. 1930)

A square, area rug in earthy brown tones, this kilim was handwoven four generations ago in the mountainous highlands of northwestern Persia.

Lustrous, Undyed Wool in Natural Earth Tones

Woven of nine narrow panels joined edge to edge, this rug is made from nearly twenty pounds of lustrous, undyed wool—dense, springy, and tightly spun for longevity across generations. Its natural palette is warm and earthy: alternating stripes of cacao, ruddy hazelnut, taupe, and cream run its full length.

This kilim was woven by hand on narrow, portable looms, a hallmark of a nomadic culture in which seasonal migrations set the rhythm of life and work. Each panel is stitched together using robust, multi-ply wool thread.

Intergenerational Appeal

Though a traditional weaving attributable to Shahsevan herders who lived in the Persia’s rugger northwest frontier, the rug’s format and tonal restraint lend it a modern sensibility. Floor-ready and in excellent condition, it sits comfortably alongside contemporary materials: warm plasters and other soft-finished walls, blonde woods, and variegated stone, tile, or marble flooring.

Condition and Use

This kilim is in excellent condition. It is robust, and the undyed wool remains bright, dense, and springy. The rug is constructed of nine panels sewn together with heavy wool thread. It was woven without tassels. Instead, the weaver folded over the rug ends sewn down with woolen thread.

This rug will withstand heavy use. A rug pad is recommended to prevent movement, particularly when used on hard-surface flooring.