Many people in Iran have invested their whole wealth in Persian carpets- often referred to as an Iranian's stocks and shares - and there are underground storage areas in Tehran's bazaar that are full of fine specimens, kept as investments by shrewd businessmen. And for many centuries, of course, the Persian carpet has received international acknowledgment for its artistic splendor. In palaces, famous building, rich homes and museums throughout the world a Persian carpet is amongst the most treasured possessions. Thus, it is not surprising that current production levels throughout Iran equal those reached prior to the Islamic Revolution of 1979. In fact, rugs are now even produced in areas where weaving was heretofore not practiced. Thus, today Iran produces more carpets than all the other carpet making centers of the world put together.
Practice:
Persian carpets and rugs have always been and still are an intrinsicpart of Iranian culture and its people's daily lives. Indeed, carpets and rugs are in many cases the most valued possessions, and they are an integral part of an Iranian home. Historically, from being simply articles of need, as pure and simple floor entrance coverings to protect the nomadic tribesmen from the cold and damp, the increasing beauty of the carpets found them new owners - kings and nobleman, those who looked for signs of wealth or adornment for fine buildings.
Perspective:
There are two aspects that I am able to conclude from the role of Persian rugs in Iranian culture. One is the pride Iranians have for their rugs and how the country and its people revel in their own history. They see their rugs are status symbols which describe wealth, social standing, and history of their own family. The second relates to how Iran functions. The society revolves around the family which is central to Iranian life and the dynamics of its culture. There is no doubt having a Persian rug as a center piece to one's home says an inordinate amount about one's family. I think both aspects, national pride and the strong emphasis on family life, makes Persian rugs so valuable within the country and to the average Iranian since they value family and pride.
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