Antique Baluch Saddle Bag 120x55cm

A Rare Curio of Tribal Art: Antique Baluch Saddle Bag with Moharramat Design

This antique Baluch saddle bag (khorjin) is a remarkable departure from the traditional Baluch color palette. Featuring a highly coveted cream ground and the rhythmic Moharramat vertical stripe design, it represents a level of sophistication and rarity seldom seen in nomadic trappings. It is a piece that immediately commands attention from textile scholars and serious collectors alike.

Exceptional Technical Details

What distinguishes this piece are the unusual decorative flourishes and structural integrity:

• The Pompom Lattice: Uniquely, the decorative pompoms are secured to the bag face via an intricate lattice structure. This is a highly unusual construction detail that adds both three-dimensional texture and architectural interest.

• Fringed Ends: In an atypical move for a utilitarian bag, this piece features decorative fringes at each end, elevating it from a simple trapping to a ceremonial or prestige object.

• Intact Closures: All original locks remain intact, a rarity for a piece of this age, showcasing the care with which it was preserved.

• Fine Weave: The weave is remarkably dense and fine, indicative of a master weaver working with high-quality, hand-spun wool.

Condition & Character

The bag face is in very good condition, with the cream ground remaining vibrant and the Moharramat design crisp. In the spirit of transparency, the back shows a few small holes consistent with its age and nomadic use. These minor signs of history do not detract from the visual impact or the structural significance of such a rare textile.

• Origin: Baluch Tribal (Persia/Afghanistan border)

• Design: Moharramat (Striped) on Cream Ground

• Features: Lattice-attached pompoms, original locks, decorative fringes.

• Purpose: Authentic nomadic saddle bag / Collector’s wall hanging.