Antique Laila-Majnu Baloch

This is an antique Baloch rug from the Sistan region of Iran at around circa 1870. Sistan is situatied in the East of Iran and has a long history with Zoroastrianism. The Balochi people are nomadic tribal people that are spread throughout East Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The have a history of making some of the finest rugs amingst the tribals. The theme of the rug is the famous and tragic Laila-Majnu Love story that had its origins in the 8th century. There is a man and woman depicted in the rug along with horsemen. The wool and dyes used on the carpet are locally reared and sourced by the weaver. As is the case with most tribal rugs it was probably woven by a woman. The carpet has a natural wear and colour variation that is desirable amingst collectors.