A 19th-century Baluch bag face, woven with the artistry that makes tribal textiles so compelling. Once part of a woven saddlebag or storage bag, this piece carries the nomadic spirit of its makers—handwoven for function but infused with deep artistic expression. Woven most likely by a woman, this saddle bag face features tribal art and symbolism. Orignially a full on saddle bag that was carried on livestock, this is now what we call a bag face and can be used as a scatter rug on the floor or decorated on the wall on perhaps on a credenza. They're special little works of art that have a lot of story as it was used by the tribe members on their livestock (typically camels, but also donkeys, and horses) to hold, carry and transport their goods. Typically, there would be two pouches bridged by a middle section that would sit on the back of the camel. For older pieces such as this one, it is only the bag face that we are left to cherish.
The two photos show it in different settings—one indoors, one outdoors—so you can see how the colors shift depending on the light. The deep indigo blue and burnt orange contrast beautifully, with subtle variations that are only enhanced by time and natural dyes.
The motifs tell their own story: a repeated diamond lattice dominates the field, a pattern often associated with protection and continuity in Baluch weavings. The borders frame it with intricate tribal geometric symbols, reinforcing the balance and movement within the design.
One of the most fun features of this piece is its top edge, which is unusually well-preserved. The woven checkerboard-like band along the top adds a decorative yet structural element, showing off the masterful weaving techniques of the Baluch tribe. The ends feature soft, aged wool, adding to the rich, tactile quality of this fragment of history.
This piece is versatile—perfect as a wall hanging, table accent, or collector’s textile. And if you’re looking for a way to repurpose it, it would make a fantastic pillow cover with the right backing, turning it into a one-of-a-kind, functional textile piece for your space.
A rare relic of 19th-century nomadic life, filled with soul, history, and unmatched craftsmanship.
Handwoven with vegetable dyed wool. From the late 19th Century.
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