| 1. |  | Bridge Rug | War rugs--Afghanistan--History--20th century ; War rugs--Afghanistan--History 21st century ; War rugs--Middle East--History--20th century ; War rugs--Middle East--History--21st century ; War rugs--Asia, Central--History--20th century ; War rugs--Asia, Central--History--21st century ; Afghanistan--social life and customs | This colourful rug appears to depict a modern-looking bridge over a busy street lined with traffic. At one end of the street is a mosque and in the sky are helicopters and jets. It is not clear whether the rug is depicting some real or hoped for! |
| 2. |  | War Rug with Natural Dyes | War rugs--Afghanistan--History--20th century ; War rugs--Afghanistan--History--21st century ; Afghanistan--Social life and customs ; Military weapons | Traditionally rugs were woven with the materials at hand—local sheep provided the wool while indigenous plants provided the colour—more exotic materials had to be traded for. While synthetic dyes are now widely used, particularly for exported wares, this little carpet stands somewhat in contrast. It depicts an AK-47 assault rifle beside a grenade—worked in wool dyed with natural dyes. |
