An Ersari Carpet

The Ersari Tribe includes the Beshir, Charshango and Kizil Ayak as sub groups. The Ersari tribe and other Turkoman groups began moving into the north-eastern Afghanistan from early seventeenth century and they continued their weaving craft. Most rugs from that area till the 20th century where made by Turkomans and Baiuchi tribes and not by Afghans and it is appropriate labelled as "Ersari Afghan". The Ersaris used undyed weft which is visible along its entire length is a characteristic feature. Te Ersari Afghan weave pattern has an overall coarser and more fibrous appearance than other Turkoman rugs.