We know very little about the history and origins of rugs. Nonetheless, it is evident that their story is a wise tapestry woven with tales of nomadic tribes, great empires, and aesthetic revolutions.

We have evidence of goats and sheep being sheared for their wool and hair, which was spun and woven as far back as the seventh millennium. However, the precise moment when humans began integrating artistic patterns, colors, and other elements into the weaving of rugs as we recognize them today remains uncertain.

If we were to journey back to 500 BC, we would come across the Pazyryk Carpet, which is the oldest known surviving rug found in a Siberian burial mound. This splendid masterpiece, adorned with detailed patterns and vibrant colors, is an acknowledgment to a culture that valued both beauty and utility.

The Pazyryk rug is one of the oldest carpets in the world, dating around the 4th–3rd centuries BC.

There are numerous stories about the origins of this carpet, with the exact truth veiled in mystery. According to certain studies, the patterns woven into the carpet closely resemble those discovered in Persepolis, the capital of the Persian Empire during the Achaemenid era, attributing the carpet to this region. The most important point, however, is that we acknowledge that humans, dating back to ancient times, mastered the art of weaving such rugs and integrating them with significant patterns employing colors.

As we journey through history, we arrive at the Silk Road era, a period marked by remarkable cultural interchange. Rugs became highly prized commodities along this ancient trading route, bringing together artistic influences across Persia, China, and Central Asia. The outcome? Stunning classics such as the Ardabil Carpet, currently exhibited in London's Victoria and Albert Museum, which showcase the Persian artistry at its finest.

The Ardabil Carpet is one of the world's oldest dated carpet and one of the largest, most beautiful and historically important. It was made in the town of Ardabil in north-west Iran, the burial place of Shaykh Safi al-Din Ardabili, who died in 1334.

The Ardabil carpet originated in the town of Ardabil, located in north-western Iran, which is also known as the burial site of Shaykh Safi al-Din Ardabili, who passed away in 1334. The Shaykh was a prominent Sufi leader and an ancestor of Shah Ismail, the founder of the Safavid dynasty (1501-1722). Although the exact origins of the carpet are unknown, it is widely believed to have been commissioned by the royal court for the shrine of the Shaykh, which, by the 16th century, had became a place of pilgrimage. It's worth mentioning that the Safavid Dynasty, regarded as the zenith of Persian rug craftsmanship, had a significant impact on the art of weaving.The Safavid monarchs, particularly Shah Abbas I, were passionate patrons of the arts and were particularly invested in encouraging rug-weaving.

Fast forward to the European Renaissance, where rugs adorned the palaces of kings and nobles. These luxurious tapestries often depicted scenes from mythology, adding a sense of splendor and wealth. The Medici family of Florence, known for their support of the arts, played a crucial role in introducing the use of rugs in Western interior design.

The rise of industrialisation in the nineteenth century fundamentally altered the rug-weaving landscape. Rugs became more affordable to the middle class as factories in developed countries began mass-producing them. However, owing to the dedication of skilled artisans, the handwoven rugs have remained essential.

In the 20th century, rugs underwent a revival. During this time, well-known artists began experimenting with innovative and modern patterns and forms, introducing the concept of abstract art to the weaving industry and signaling an evolution from traditional designs and methods.

Today, the world of rugs is more diverse than ever. From traditional Persian and Oriental rugs to contemporary, modern designs, there's a rug to suit every taste and style. Although technological advancements have made it much easier to design and manufacture rugs, the true value of classic hand-woven rugs remains unrivaled not only because of their beautiful patterns and rich colors, but also because of the treasured stories they contain.These rugs are far more than just floor coverings; they are living legacies of skilled artisans, reflecting the heritage, culture, and traditions of a bygone era. Owning a classic rug is like owning a piece of history, a tangible connection to the past, and a testament to the enduring artistry of human hands.