History of Persian Rugs

Historical records document the notable role Persian rugs and textiles played as commodities in the international marketplace. As the interests of European and Eastern countries shifted towards trade and economic expansion, textiles became major boons for solidifying local luxury economies.

During the 15-1600s, raw silk and finely woven textiles were a major source of income for the Persian crown; the consistent stability of this market was disrupted by intense European competition in the 1700s- where extreme European export disrupted the international trade market. Over time, finished carpets replaced raw textiles as the major profit-drawing export, and European investors heavily increased commercial production of carpets in the East to meet demand – these are the Persian rugs most commonly familiar today.

Timeline of Persian Rug

1498 – Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama finds new route oceanic route from Europe to the East