Imagine every time you open your door, you look down the hallway to a rich cultural history. You feel and see the love of an artist.
This is what a Persian rug can do for you.
Take a moment to walk with me through the history and process that has been poured into these rugs, Melbourne.
Steeped in history
Persian rugs have been handwoven for over 2,500 years, often by nomadic people. There’s no clear evidence when or where Persians started weaving their rugs — Iran typically gets the credit.
They are handwoven using inherited and proven methods, steeped in history and tradition — from their colour to all symbols and medallions.
Everyone is unique — with earthy tones created by natural vegetable dyes.
Each rug found in a rug shop Melbourne can take months to make and last for decades — making it a great investment for the beauty and value of your home.
Handwoven rugs were not always used and made solely for decoration
In ancient Persian tradition, most homes did not have furniture except a cushion called a “poshti”, which they would lean on while sitting on the floor. These ancient Persians would cover the floor and poshti with their hand woven rugs to serve as cushion covers and keep the warmth in their homes while keeping the moisture out.
As early as 800 B.C.E., the wealthiest among people began to see the rugs as decorative pieces. At this point, weavers began adding more elaborate detailing to the design.
Persian rug weaving climaxed in the 15th-16th century, during the Safavid dynasty era in Iran. It was during this time that being fashionable meant matching the floor and ceiling with colours, designs and patterns. It was at this time rugs began to be more detailed. Patterns of mosque domes, palaces and intricate designs were woven in the rugs. Many fine, valuable rugs were made in this time period.
Changing over time
In the 14th century, the rug industry had one of its most significant developments. The Safavid dynasty in Iran and the Ottoman Empire in Turkey began to be seriously competitive — while trying to impress the world. This competition led to the emergence of important rug making cities — such as Tabriz, Isfahan, and Ardabil.
These cities soon became the place where the best Persian rugs were made.
Rug weaving then moved to India in the 16th and 17th centuries — old Persian weaving techniques and designs were kept.
An art form
By the late 18th century, Persian rugs had become a type of art.
In 1861, North America became the first place to have a rug exhibition — hosted in Philadelphia. This was followed by another exhibition in London in 1882. Starting what is now a big demand for Persian rugs for everything from decoration to functionality and tradition.
Interesting fact
Even though the mountains of Iran supported high-quality wool, some wool was also imported from New Zealand and Australia. This means some rugs Melbourne can be sourced straight from home.
A Persian rug with all its history and elegance is waiting for you at your nearest rug shop Melbourne — happy hunting.
