Antique Afshar  Copper Sky Runner 3’8” × 9’5” | Circa 1910–1930

A luminous example of early 20th-century Afshar weaving from the Sirjan region of South Persia, this runner is defined by its copper-toned field — a hue that shifts with light from burnished rose to warm terracotta. The geometric medallions form a rhythmic chain through the center, framed by small angular motifs and an ivory border that softens the composition. Subtle traces of oxidized teal and walnut brown bring quiet contrast and depth.

The wool is entirely hand-spun and lanolin-rich, yielding a surface that feels soft yet substantial underhand. Over a century of oxidation has mellowed the original vegetable dyes into a complex, painterly palette — each color the result of natural madder root, indigo, and undyed wool.

Its construction is true to Afshar tribal tradition: wool pile on a wool foundation, woven on a narrow village loom. The design — neither rigid nor commercial — reflects the individuality of its maker, with minor asymmetries and abrash that testify to a weaver’s rhythm and the rural dyes of her landscape.

Edges and ends remain fully original and well-preserved, a rare trait among antique runners of this period. The patina carries both time and soul — a century of quiet radiance that has deepened every tone and softened every contour.

Authentic Afshar character: earthy, luminous, and enduringly elegant.

Details

• Size: 3’8” × 9’5”

• Origin: Sirjan region, South Persia

• Tribe: Afshar

• Circa: 1910–1930

• Materials: 100% hand-spun wool on wool foundation

• Dyes: Natural vegetable dyes (madder, indigo, walnut husk, undyed ivory)

• Condition: Excellent for age — full pile, intact ends, and graceful oxidation

• One of a kind — handwoven heirloom