Baluch Trapping, Afghanistan. Some may argue that regarding white as a color is a bit of a stretch. With that said though, the white wool seen here is “lower" than the dyed areas surrounding it suggesting it was treated as such and bleached. It is thought that natural wool was perhaps not light enough (?) for the intended design has been bleached prior to weaving, contributing to the corroded appearance as the fibers have been weakened by the process. The colors are exceptionally vibrant with a deeply saturated red and blue green in addition to a clear aubergine (purple) dye. Often overlooked in the marketplace, these trappings and bands were probably produced for domestic use rather than for trade in the local marketplaces. 11" x 31" (28cm x 78cm) Asymmetric knot open left, 9h x 9v = 81 kpsi. Colors (7): 2 reds (dark medium), blue/green, blue, aubergine, corrosive brown, bleached ivory/white. Published: Plate 97. Cole, T. FROM THE LAND OF THE SUN. THE RICHARD STEWART COLLECTION OF BALUCH RUGS, BAGS, AND TRAPPINGS. 2022.

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