I recently came across this really fascinating book that was archived by Google in their digital book archives. This book was originally published in 1900 and this edition dates to 1915.

The text is fascinating as it describes in some detail what was happening in the countries that produced rugs at the beginning of the 20th century. It is well worth reading a few pages to get an idea of what things were like back then. The world has changed and continues to change at a starling pace. When this book was written, the author declares that “momentous changes have taken place in the Orient. The past decade has witnessed in Persia the downfall of a dynasty, and indeed the throne itself…. While these lines are being written the Turkish forts at the gateways of Constantinople are trembling under assault of Russian, French, and English guns, and the Ottoman power, after five centuries of guile and audacity, is turning its face again towards Asia….”.

The text is fascinating but there is more! There are some amazing pictures that illustrated this book including the pictures I have posted below. These fascinating pictures give a glimpse of the people and places that were involved in producing rugs in 1900. There are shots from Iran, Turkey, India and Kurdistan.

I hope you enjoy these shots and think about history. 100 years ago the world was a different place. Where will we be in another 100 years? All my best, Chris

Recently, textile designer, Carol Van Zandt, wandered into Nomad Rugs.

Here is her thoughtful Blog article relating her visit to Nomad Rugs.

And be sure to check out the rest of her blog and website for cool textile news!

Thanks Carol!

To those who say, “He who laughs last, laughs best.”

I respond in saying, “She who laughs with a camel laughs even better!”

Don’t underestimate the power of a good rug!

The Dude Abides.

Have you seen our fabulous Patchwork Rugs? These exciting and unique rugs are made from antique rug fragments that have been pieced together in unique new combinations. These rugs are simultaneously vintage and modern and they look superb in almost any interior.

For the month of March, all of our patchwork rugs will be 20% off! Come in a check out these cool rugs. I’m sure you will love them! Click on the pictures below to check out these fabulous rugs. Also, to see all latest arrivals of Turkish Patchwork Carpets click on this link to our Flickr page or you can see them also posted here on our Facebook page.

PS: Our Patchwork Kilims are on SALE too!

Recently I was in New York where I visited the newly re-opened Islamic Art Galleries. Actually, the re-done galleries are officially called “New Galleries for the Art of the Arab Lands, Turkey, Iran, Central Asia and Later South Asia“. Wow! Wanna try saying that five times fast….?

Anyway, whatever you call them…. the New Galleries are absolutely beautiful. A highlight for me, of course, was visiting many of the historic carpets that the Met has in its permanent collection. There are many stunning Safavid pieces, numerous Mughal masterpieces and Anatolian treasures and more!

My favorite carpet is probably the transcendent “Simonetti” carpet (named after one of the carpets’ former owners). This rug dates to the Mamluk period and it is a true masterpiece.

Anyway, I made a short video showing some of the highlights of the carpets from this collection. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for looking. Chris