Antique Samarkand (Khotan) Runner — 1920s | 4'9" x 9'3"

This antique Samarkand runner—also known as a Khotan rug—features a diminutive center medallion set within a covered field of layered shadow medallions and bursting floral motifs. The composition reflects the distinctive visual language of the Silk Road, blending Eastern and Western influences with clarity, rhythm, and balance.

Lovely abrash appears throughout, with time-softened color that includes cherry red, beige, pale blush, soft rose, and seafoam tones. These subtle tonal shifts add depth and movement, allowing the runner to feel richly patterned without overwhelming a space.

With its elongated proportions and nuanced design, Arlson is well suited for hallways, corridors, kitchens, or layered use in larger rooms—bringing history, warmth, and visual flow to everyday interiors.

Woven in Uzbekistan circa the 1920s, Samarkand (Khotan) rugs are part of a storied textile tradition shaped by the Silk Road. For centuries, the trade routes connecting Central Asia with China, Persia, and the Mediterranean carried not only goods, but motifs—creating rugs that feel uniquely hybrid: decorative, symbolic, and unmistakably cosmopolitan.

Runners like this were made to bring warmth and beauty to daily life in long interior passages and gathering spaces. Their design vocabulary often combines medallions, florals, and repeating “shadow” forms—motifs that speak to continuity, protection, and abundance, while also showcasing the region’s love of ornament and balanced composition.

The abrash seen across the field reflects hand-dyed wool and small-batch weaving, where natural variations in dye lots and yarn absorption create a living, dimensional surface. Rather than uniform perfection, these tonal shifts are part of what makes an authentic antique Samarkand runner feel soulful and collected.

Today, antique and antique Samarkand/Khotan rugs are highly sought after for their refined palettes, graphic clarity, and ability to bridge styles—from traditional to modern—while carrying real cultural history underfoot.

Arslon is a name of Central Asian origin meaning “lion.” It symbolizes strength, protection, and quiet authority—qualities reflected in both the palette and structure of this antique Samarkand (Khotan) runner.

The warm reds, blush tones, and earthy neutrals echo the coloring of a lion’s coat, while the layered medallions and floral motifs create a sense of contained power and movement. The diminutive central medallion anchors the composition like a steady presence, while the surrounding shadow medallions radiate outward with controlled energy.

Arslon feels grounded yet expressive—ornamental without excess. Like the lion it’s named for, this runner carries strength without aggression, offering a confident, protective presence that brings warmth, rhythm, and cultural depth to elongated spaces.

• Primary material: Wool
• Construction: Hand-knotted
• Dye method: Hand-dyed yarns with natural abrash
• Edges: Fully secured sides and ends
• Notes: Minor processing marks on reverse consistent with rugs of this type

This antique Samarkand (Khotan) runner is in timeworn, authentic condition consistent with its early 20th-century age and traditional use. The wool pile shows even wear down to the knot heads, with areas of foundation showing through—an honest patina that contributes to its softened feel and collected character.

Abrash and tonal variation are present throughout, reflecting hand-dyed wool and the natural variation of antique weaving rather than damage. The sides and ends are fully secured for stability and continued everyday enjoyment.

For processing and inventory purposes, this and other rugs of the type may have painted numbers or markings on the reverse side. These do not affect the rug’s face, function, or overall presentation in the home.

This runner has been recently professionally cleaned and is ready for immediate in-home use. With proper care, it offers many more years of enjoyment as a hand-knotted Samarkand/Khotan rug runner made in Uzbekistan circa the 1920s.

Rugs are professionally cleaned prior to shipment. Minor loose fibers may be present upon arrival and will settle with gentle vacuuming.

We recommend placing this runner in low- to medium-traffic areas and using a quality rug pad for added support and longevity. Rotate periodically to encourage even wear.

Vacuum gently without a beater bar. Spot clean as needed. For deep cleaning, consult a professional rug cleaner experienced with antique and hand-knotted rugs. Avoid excessive moisture and prolonged direct sunlight.

Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. Each antique Samarkand runner is unique in design, coloration, and wear. The rug shown is the exact piece you will receive.

What is a Samarkand or Khotan rug?
Samarkand rugs originate along the Silk Road and are known for blending Eastern and Western motifs, often featuring medallions, florals, and symbolic elements in balanced compositions.

Is the rug ready for use?
Yes. This runner has been professionally cleaned and is ready for immediate in-home placement.

Why might there be markings on the back of the rug?
For processing and inventory purposes, some antique rugs may have painted numbers or markings on the reverse. These do not affect the rug’s appearance or function.