Insect Egg Identification Chart Species, Egg Shape, Color and Size Afghan Mashwani Rug. The Mashwani are a semi nomadic Pashtun tribe from the Herat region of western Afghanistan, and they are the only Pashtun tribe known for weaving pile rugs. What makes their rugs structurally unique is the construction, a combination of flatweave kilim and hand knotted pile worked together in the same piece, producing a surface that is embossed and dimensional, with design elements that sit raised against the flatwoven field. These rugs were traditionally woven as dowry pieces, a direct reflection of the weaver's skill and her family's standing. The geometric designs are dense and expanding, large hooked diamonds, zigzag patterns and tribal symbols packed tightly across the field with a boldness that is immediately recognisable. The colour palette tends toward deeper, earthier tones. The rug is 100% wool throughout, woven entirely by hand using traditional techniques passed down through generations of Mashwani women.