Afghan Modern Vegetable Dye

Afghan Modern Vegetable DyeThe kilim rug is steeped in tradition. Considered to resemble the first carpets in history that date back several hundred years before Christ, the roots of the kilim trace back to the nomadic peoples of the Middle East, where these rugs were used as blankets, seat mats, saddle blankets, wall decoration and carpets. Hand woven, the 'flatweave' kilim is almost identical top and bottom, making both sides of the carpet usable. Warp and weft weaving

these highly skilled

is woven through a number of warp strands before being looped back

handspun from local sheep and dyed naturally with vegetables and roots

who have passed down the skill from generation to generation since the Mogul rule of the Indian subcontinent in the 16th century

Considered an essential skill

Since the 15th century

which is why the rugs are sought after – and much loved – by collectors

making both sides of the carpet usable

Common patterns include medallions

Within these patterns there is a lot of variety

Herati (the most common) and Boteh or all-over florals

It is the semi-nomadic Kudish people of Markad – living in tribes away from the city and practicing the traditions of their ancestors – that weave the tribal Lilian rug