rug, unknown maker from Persia

Archive Label:
"Empire of Things," 2012, Raechel Cook.

Persian textiles were prized by Europeans for their exotic designs and rich colors yet remained a product of commercialization to Eastern countries. Persian carpets were originally produced in small-scale workshops, which were sufficient for the local use of covering the floors of homes. Local carpet production did not meet the needs required for profitable export. Countries including England, America, and Germany invested in the revitalization of the Persian rug industry. Companies were set up in Persia to streamline acquisition of raw material and standardize rug design. This process allowed for high rug production and capital gain. However, these companies often controlled grazing land and flock migration which caused tension between the Persian government and tribal groups.