Vintage Herki Kurdish runner from Iraq. 385×73 (81) cms

Original Vintage Herki Kurdish Runner from Iraq – Tree of Life & Star Medallions

Discover a truly distinctive piece with this vintage Herki Kurdish runner from Iraq, featuring a rare and geometric Tree of Life motif running through the narrow central field. This handcrafted tribal long rug is a testament to Kurdish artistry, boasting rich symbolism and intricate detail.

The main field displays 11 medallions, each centered with eight-pointed stars, and surrounded by traditional motifs including trees, leaves, and even birds—offering a glimpse into nature and mythology. Framing this are multiple borders as wide as the central field itself: the main border showcases a striking geometric pattern, while the outermost border is delicately decorated with stylized floral designs.

You’ll also find writing woven into both the main field and the border, hinting at its cultural and possibly personal significance.

Please note: Due to its origin on a rustic village loom, the runner measures 73 cm wide at one end and 81 cm at the other, a charming reminder of its handmade heritage.

This one-of-a-kind corridor rug is perfect for design lovers looking to bring soul, story, and color into their long corridor.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool              

Size: 385×73 (at the other end 81 cms)

Origin: Kurdish Herki, Iraq

Date of weaving: 1970s

Herki, also spelled Harki (Kurdish: Herkî ,ھەرکی‎) is a large tribe in Kurdistan. The largest part of this tribe live in Iraqi Kurdistan and a significant number live in Iranian Kurdistan. They are also found in Northern Kurdistan.

The Herkis lived mostly a nomadic life with their herds; however, this changed a lot after 1920 and the Treaty of Sèvres. The new hand-drawn borders of Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey hindered Kurdish tribes to continue their way of life.

In 1989 they counted some 20,000 people, living between Urmia and Rawanduz, one of the largest remaining groups of pastoral herders. On their regular movement they brought salt from Iran to Iraq and carried wheat and barley back to Iran.

The Herkis were a very well-armed tribe and were noted to be good warriors and fierce men. Some of their women would occationally be seen fighting alongside men.