A rug is a rug, right? Not quite. There’s a particular distinction between rugs from various countries. Central Asian countries, such as India, Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey have a long history with rug-making, but each country has a distinctive style to their carpets, and their traditions surrounding the art form.
Persian rugs, named for the country of Persia, which is now modern-day Iran, are infamous for their incredibly intricate designs, traditional motifs, and bright colors. They are woven using the same knot technique found in Turkish rugs and are woven using the same method to this day. The patterns and colors are also traditional, representing different parts of the country and different cultures within Iran.
Because of the complexity of the designs, the vibrant colors, and the hand-woven aspect, Persian rugs are highly sought out in every corner of the globe. Dealers exist all throughout the United States, from NYC to Boston, to southern cities like Houston. The beauty of these rugs is universal, proved in how many dealers and rug experts there are in the United States alone.
Persian carpets have been produced for far longer than scientists can date. The oldest remnants of these rugs were dated around the early 12th century; anything older than that has deteriorated since. But that doesn’t stop a modern world’s fascination with the carpets. The method for weaving Persian carpets has changed only in tools; the process itself has essentially remained the same throughout the centuries.
The materials may be different, and the dyes may be synthetic these days, but the process of making a Persian rug has only changed slightly. Owning a Persian rug is like owning a piece of art from centuries past. Iran has kept the art form alive for many, many years, and the interest and fascination have yet to dissipate.