Antique Turkoman Rug (Bokhara Design)
Size: 4'6" × 6'2"
Age: Circa 1890s
Material: Wool on wool
Dyes: Natural vegetable dyes
This handsome antique Turkoman rug showcases the classic Bokhara design, one of the most recognizable and enduring patterns in the world of Oriental carpets. The field is filled with orderly rows of traditional Turkoman guls—octagonal tribal medallions associated with the weaving tribes of Central Asia—which together create the iconic Bokhara appearance. Set against a richly saturated madder-red ground, the repeating motifs establish a sense of rhythm, balance, and visual harmony.
The appeal of this rug lies in its disciplined geometric composition. Rather than relying on elaborate floral ornamentation, the design achieves its elegance through repetition, symmetry, and finely executed tribal motifs. Multiple geometric borders frame the field, reinforcing the structure of the composition while adding depth and decorative interest.
Handwoven entirely of wool on a wool foundation and colored with natural vegetable dyes, this late 19th-century carpet displays the rich texture, durability, and depth of color that distinguish authentic Turkoman weavings. The warm palette of crimson, rust, ivory, and deep brown has mellowed beautifully with age, giving the rug a rich patina and timeless character.
A superb example of a traditional Bokhara-pattern Turkoman rug, this piece combines tribal authenticity with a design that has remained popular for generations. Its balanced proportions, classic motifs, and outstanding age make it equally attractive to collectors and decorators seeking a distinctive antique textile with enduring appeal.