Afghan Area Rugs: Khal Mohammadi, Baluchi, Mamluk & More

Arsh's Rug Library · Rug Styles

Afghan rugs are known for deep, rich color and bold geometric designs. Most are woven by families who have made rugs for generations, and each style carries the look of the tribe or region behind it.

Khal Mohammadi

Khal Mohammadi rugs are recognized by their deep red ground and rows of small, repeating gul (medallion) motifs, often outlined in black and ivory. The name is linked to a weaving family, and the style is prized for its dense wool and saturated red. Browse our Khal Mohammadi collection.

Baluchi

Baluchi rugs come from the Baluch tribes of western Afghanistan and the border regions with Iran and Pakistan. They are usually smaller rugs in dark, earthy reds, browns and navy, sometimes with prayer-rug (mihrab) designs, and they have a soft, glossy wool. See our Balochi rugs.

Close-up of Khal Mohammadi guls on a red ground — A Mamluk-style medallion rug, and Khal Mohammadi guls up close.

Mamluk

Mamluk-style rugs revive designs from the Mamluk sultanate of Egypt, from about 1250 to 1517: a central octagon or eight-pointed star surrounded by tightly packed geometric panels, in red, blue and green. Our Mamluk rugs are made in Afghanistan in New Zealand wool with natural dyes.

Turkoman and Khorjeen designs

Turkoman weaving uses repeating guls in rows, and Khorjeen (khorjin) refers to the saddlebag designs woven by nomadic groups. Our Khorjeen rugs bring that tribal geometry to full-size area rugs.

Choosing an Afghan rug

Afghan rugs' dense wool and busy patterns make them hard-wearing and forgiving in living rooms, entries and offices. Their reds pair well with wood, leather and white walls. As with any handmade rug, check that the design is clear on the back and the sides are straight; see our handmade rug checklist.

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