Qashqai Shishboluki Fine Sar Kesh Persian Kilim Rug with Lattice Panels, c. 1940s–60s

A finely balanced Qashqai kilim from the Shishboluki sub-clan, woven in the long Sar kesh kilim bedding-wrap format. This vintage Persian carpet displays a disciplined lattice of hooked rectangles in madder red, separated by ivory tracks filled with stepped cruciforms in indigo, olive, lilac and pumpkin. A bold reciprocal black-and-ivory border frames the composition, with olive guard bands lending contrast. The colour palette is predominantly natural dye, with the likely exception of the pumpkin orange: warm madder red with lively abrash, deep indigo blues, weld-based greens, undyed ivory, and an orchil-type lilac that has mellowed attractively over time. All-wool construction gives a supple handle and quiet sheen, while ends and selvedges remain tidy and sound. This natural dye kilim offers striking length for a gallery corridor, large kitchen or open-plan living space, bringing the geometric elegance of handwoven rugs that collectors seek in authentic vintage tribal rugs.