9x12 Handwoven Black Checkered Kilim Rug - 51744

Short vertical bars in sand and ivory are grouped into blocks across a deep black field, and the blocks alternate with plain black areas to create a loose checkered effect. The bars are irregular in width and spacing, which gives the surface a woven, almost basket-like texture. Looking closer, some blocks hold vertical bars and their neighbors hold short horizontal dashes, so the checkerboard is really a play between two directions of line, much like a woven basket or a stitched sampler.

Made by hand in Turkey, this kilim was woven from wool salvaged from older kilims and rewoven into a modern graphic design. At 9'5" x 11'9" (287 x 358 cm) and about 5 mm thick, it suits a living room, a dining room for six to eight or a primary bedroom. It weighs about 20 kg (44 lbs). Because it is a flatweave, it lies flush with the floor, and a quick vacuum with the brush roll turned off lifts dust from the dark ground.

The dark palette is a strong match for modern, industrial, monochrome and contemporary rooms, and it also grounds lighter Scandinavian spaces. Its dark ground is also forgiving in busy rooms and households with pets. A pale oak table, white walls and a linen sofa would give it contrast. Practical, dramatic and easy to pair with black and natural wood.