The world has witnessed an increase in the total number of carpet types in circulation, we have watched with keen interest to see how the carpet stores near us increased from one to numerous numbers and we have witnessed quite a handful of changes in the level of technology and materials used in carpeting. In this article we shall look at the past, present and future of carpets to enlighten us of how the origin of carpets and why they are what they are today.
From time immemorial, man has used different forms of items to keep himself away from the cold and discomforting floor or ground or the surface he walks on, sits or sleep on.
The earliest form of carpets made their first appearance in the form of animal skin or hides. As time progressed, coupled with the latest trends, people fabricated materials which offered a better level of comfort and durability.
The first forms of carpets dates back to 6000BC when the domestication of animals and the reliance of using furs for floor covering was very prevalent. These animals (goats and sheep) were sheared for their wool which was later spun into rug like coverings for rooms. This act continued until in 1480 B.C when the Egyptians invented the use of handlooms for weaving.
Archeological records believe this earliest from of knotted rug, “the Pazyryk carpet” which was discovered in 1960 dates back to 480 B.C. It was found in an ice-filled tomb in Outer Mongolia. This rug has an unknown origin and measured between 5 and 6 feet.
It shares the same characteristics with a modern Persian or Anatolian rug with a pile of Ghiordes knot. The carpet featured a central tile-work motif which was surrounded by borders featuring rows of elk and horsemen.
Over the centuries, there was a gradual improvement in weaving and the evolution in design of these carpets led to the creation of a more elaborate pattern which is now being used today. In the early 8th century, it was a normal routine for wealthy families to decorate their homes with elaborately woven and magnificent rugs which were of historic significance.
In the late 16th century, the Persian King Shah Tahmasp ordered for the creation of the famous Ardebil carpet. It measured 17 by 34 feet and had over 32 million tightly woven knots. This priceless work of art now sits in the Victoria and Albert museum in London, England and is considered as one of the most magnificent rugs the world has ever seen.
The production of rugs experienced a series of changes from Persia in the 16th century to Morocco, China (17th century) where it was an act done for only the rich and highly influential to the Middle East where it was designed and used for different personal purposes.
The major supply of carpets in the world came from the Middle East until French ruler Henry IV started the first carpet in his palace in 1608. England followed the trend in 1655 and this led to the shifting of carpet production to a commercial scale.
Conclusion
When next you pay a visit to carpet stores near you for carpet installation, bear in mind that these items had a long line of history of being associated with class. Contact us if you have any question on the subject matter, we will love to hear from you.
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