| Magic Carpets In Hout Bay
Persian carpets are undoubtedly the finest in the world. The oldest surviving carpet in the world is the Pazyryk Carpet from the 5th century BC which was found in the grave of a Scythian prince the icy wastes of Siberia. The carpet, which came from Persia, already indicates a long tradition of advanced weaving.
In Iran (Persia) carpet weaving is traditional art, handed down from one generation to the next, with children learning how to make carpets from an early age. It is mainly the women who weave the carpets and they pass this skill on to their children. Each carpet tells a story. The pattern shows exactly which city the carpet comes from. Although the luxuriant patterns are often rich and complex, some patterns are so woven into the culture, that the ghaliba, or carpet weaver, does not need to use a pattern. The Persian Empire was the largest empire in the ancient world, pre-dating Greece. It was founded by Cyrus the Great and spread over three continents, Asia, Africa and Europe. The richness of Persian history and culture can be seen in many of the carpets and it is indeed ‘magic’ to hear an Iranian person tell the stories behind the carpets.
Today Iran is the world’s largest producer and exporter of handmade carpets, and Aida Mohammedy who has just the House of Persia carpet shop in Hout Bay, gets her carpets directly from Iran. She has certified genuine Persian carpets, such as Kilim and Qalii. They are finely textured in gorgeous rich colours. Because they come directly from Iran she can sell them at excellent prices.
Aida was born and grew up in Iran. She has been living in South Africa for the past eleven years. She is well connected with the Persian carpet industry and her daughter Melika is also in the business, selling Persian carpets in Mossel Bay.
If you want to see some really magnificent Persian carpets, drop in to the House of Persia and ask for Aida. She will advise on what best suits your home décor and design.
House of Persia is located at 4 Pam Arlene Place, Main Road, Hout Bay.
Open 7 days a week 9 to 5pm. Sundays to 2pm. |
