Expert Goljaam,
Volume 18, Issue 42 (9-2022)
Abstract
The Persian carpet is one of the most prominent cultural, historical, and economic symbols of Iran, holding a distinguished position in the country's history and national identity. This unparalleled art form, with deep roots in Iranian culture and history, is recognized not only as an artistic and functional commodity but also as an integral part of everyday life and a symbol of national identity across various cultures. The central research question of this article is: “How has the Persian carpet been able to simultaneously shape national identity, social values, and economic impacts within Iranian society as both an art form and a cultural commodity?”
Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, this article examines the historical development of the Persian carpet, from the Pazyryk carpet as the oldest known example to the flourishing of carpet weaving during the Safavid era, and its influence on Iran’s economy and cultural interactions in the contemporary period. From a sociological perspective, the study analyzes the role of carpets in reflecting the beliefs, values, and cultural symbols of Iranian society. Persian carpet motifs, such as boteh jegheh, Shah Abbasi floral designs, and arabesque (eslimi) patterns, embody religious, mythological, and natural themes that reveal the profound Iranian worldview toward nature, culture, and history.
In traditional societies, carpets were not only regarded as essential household items but also served as indicators of families’ social, economic, and cultural status. From an economic standpoint, the Persian carpet has been one of Iran’s most significant export commodities, playing a crucial role in foreign exchange earnings and job creation, particularly in rural areas. The carpet-weaving industry, largely centered on home-based workshops, has contributed to the empowerment of women and the intergenerational transmission of skills, thereby supporting the sustainability of local communities. However, in recent years, this industry has faced several challenges, including competition from low-cost products, shifts in global consumption patterns, and reduced governmental support.
The findings of this study indicate that the Persian carpet, beyond being an artwork or a commercial product, is a cultural heritage that has played a vital role in shaping and consolidating Iranian identity. Emphasizing the historical and social values of this art, alongside supporting the carpet-weaving industry, can contribute to its preservation and promotion at both national and international levels. This research highlights the necessity of revising supportive policies and improving the global introduction and marketing of Persian carpets.
Expert Goljaam, ,
Volume 18, Issue 42 (9-2022)
Abstract
Carpet bags, as both artistic and functional expressions within the realm of handicrafts, possess deep cultural roots across various societies and have gained particular prominence in Iran. These products represent a fusion of traditional weaving techniques and modern design, serving not only as utilitarian items but also as carriers of cultural, aesthetic, and historical significance. Globally, several studies have explored the transformation of old carpets into new products such as bags, shoes, and interior decorations, reflecting the globalization of handicrafts and their redefinition in modern contexts.
Nevertheless, a research gap remains in the historical analysis of carpet bags in Iran and other countries, particularly regarding their cultural, stylistic, functional, and formal dimensions. This qualitative, descriptive-historical study conducted without a hypothesis—aims to investigate the historical and cultural trajectory of carpet bags in Iran and worldwide. Data collection was carried out through library and documentary methods, and the research adopts an interdisciplinary approach to analyze the intersection of traditional art and modern design throughout the historical development of this product.
The study begins with a review of bag design history across various cultures, followed by an exploration of the global evolution of carpet bag design. It then focuses on the Iranian cultural and social context to examine the transformation of carpet bags in terms of utility, aesthetics, and performance. Key factors such as lifestyle, the role of women in handicraft production, ethnic and cultural dynamics, and the impact of commercial and cultural exchanges on stylistic diversity and form are central to this analysis.
Findings indicate that carpet bags are not merely consumer goods but symbols of cultural and artistic identity. The most vivid representation of their historical transformation can be found among Iran’s nomadic tribes, where these items reflect daily life and cultural beliefs.
