Kurdish Patchwork Kilim Rug / Tapestry

A wall of reds, with black blocks cut in like windows.

This patchwork kilim rug was woven by Kurdish makers of Turkey in wool in the 20th century. Patchwork kilims are commonly made by sewing together flatwoven fragments, and the result is a mosaic of tone and weave. The ground is crimson, burgundy and brick, set with black and charcoal rectangles scattered across the field. Subtle variation in the dye gives the reds an uneven, lived-in glow, and the edges are neatly finished.

A rug with attitude. Under a low table, it holds the room together.