TEHRAN – On Saturday, the Carpet Museum of Iran opened its doors to a captivating exhibition titled “Pictorial Carpets: A Study of Qajar-Era Rugs” in celebration of the approaching Nowruz holiday.

The exhibition showcases forty exquisite pieces from the museum's treasure trove, shedding light on the rich artistic heritage of the Qajar dynasty.

During this period, according to organizers, carpet weavers, and designers played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding the "pictorial movement," one of the most significant and captivating visual trends in the courtly and contemporary folk art of their time.

Among the carpets on display, visitors can explore examples of outstanding visual structures including nostalgic and mythological imagery, romantic and poetic narratives, courtly portraits, religious motifs, and depictions of scholars and ascetics, as well as postcard-like and scenic views.

During the Qajar period, profound transformations occurred in the traditional organization and orientation of the Persian carpet industry, resulting in notable changes in Persian carpets themselves.

One particularly noteworthy development was the substantial increase in both the number of looms and the volume of carpet exports from the 1290s/1870s to World War I.

Throughout this period, despite the diverse array of carpets woven, consistent patterns of production and finance prevailed across the country, both preceding and following the economic upturn. Carpets not intended for the weaver's personal use were either directly commissioned or manufactured commercially for broader markets, both within Persia and overseas.

Generally, Persian carpets are sought after internationally, with patterns of Persian gardens being arguably the most characteristic feature of them all. Weavers spend several months in front of a loom, stringing and knotting thousands of threads. Some practice established patterns. Some make their own.

Each Persian carpet is a scene that seems ageless, a procedure that can take as long as a year. These efforts have long put Iran’s carpets among the most complex and labor-intensive handicrafts in the world. When the weaving is finally done, the carpet is cut, washed, and put out in the sun to dry.

Throughout history, invaders, politicians, and even enemies have left their impact on Iran’s carpets. As mentioned by the Britannica Encyclopedia, little is known about Persian carpet-making before the 15th century, when art was already approaching a peak.

AM