016: Antique Qashqa’i Kilim

An Early History of the Qashqa’i People Southwest Iran is both the historic homeland and the most fabled region of the Persian people. It was from here that Cyrus the Great would establish the Achaemenid Empire around 2,500 years ago. It would become the largest empire the world had seen up to that point and

005: Antique Mina Khani Baluch Rug

return to our site The Baluch Baluch refers to a people that span from eastern Iran, into western Afghanistan and reaching throughout Pakistan and into the Punjab state of India. They are composed of many distinct groups that share common language, culture and customs. Traditionally they were mostly nomadic but currently many have adapted to settled life. The highest quality weaving,

003: Afshar Masnad

return to our site A Special Seat A masnad rug would be spread on top of another rug as a special seat for the most respected guest upon their visit. The majority of masnads are woven to accommodate one person, although sometimes they would be larger, potentially for a bride & groom. This seating tradition continued until the 19th

002: Armenian Kakavik Rug

return to our site Armenian Rugs Armenian rugs tend to feature more curvilinear floral designs, with elaborate blossoms. They were traditionally created for the Russian markets, who tended to favor these types of designs. Partridges (kakavik, pronounced gugku-veek) hold an important place in Armenian culture. They are featured often in Armenian poetry, and can be used for ceremonial purposes.