Traditional

Traditional Iranian carpets were once made in sizes, formats and sets that did not fit western rooms and colour schemes. The introduction in the second half of the 19th century of colours, designs and sizes that reflected western tastes and demand revolutionised the Iranian rug industry. Many of the carpet styles that are associated with today’s Persian rugs spring from this period. Soft colours, larger sizes, all-over designs with flowers, leaves, birds, palmettes and rosettes, decorative elements that have informed generations of designers from William Morris to Armani, can be traced back to carpets made in Iran from the 16th century through to the early 20th century. The ability to adapt to different trends and tastes is an enduring characteristic of Iranian carpets. The scale of the industry, the different levels of production and variety of techniques have ensured that the Iranian rug industry has always remained relevant and continued to be a major exporter of handmade carpets.