The beauty of Afghanistan manifests in many different ways. From the natural beauty of her rugged mountains and winding valleys, to the scent of her saffron and spices, to the culture of complex and colourful handmade carpets. 1/?

She has won awards for the quality of her craft and the intricacy of the design. As such, these works are highly sought after in international markets. You will find these rugs, carpets and crafts adorned in each and every Afghan home. 2/?

For centuries, carpet weaving has been an integral part of the Afghan heritage, reflecting its ethnic diversity and the range of its cultural influences through its creative produce. Indeed, one can see the cultures of Central Asia and Afghanistan herself come to life. 3/?

One finds in them the influence of Oriental and Persian styles, the history of war, and the enduring Afghan struggle itself. These works range across different and disparate designs, across sizes and colours, and even in motifs such as landmarks, maps and portraits. 4/?

All carpets possess a particular pattern (göl) inspired by their surroundings of nature and are set out in a geometric style. During the Soviet Occupation and post 9/11, the war carpets depicted motifs of guns, tanks, helicopters, and doves amongst others. 5/?

However, the most popular carpets that one can find are the Khal Mohammadi & Afghan Aqche handmade rugs. These are mostly assembled in Northern + Western Afghanistan mostly by Turkmen. There are also many others that are similar in design & style but foster multiple colours. 6/?

The traditional and most typical are that of the Octagonal elephant’s foot print with a red background (Bukhara). The weavers also produce other trappings of the nomadic lifestyle, including tent bags & ceremonial pieces. 7/?

The Afghan rug is thus, both an amazing piece of art and a pinnacle of craftsmanship passed down through decades. 8/8

Photo credits to Fatimah Hosseini.