Origin: Kashan, Iran (Persia)

Age: Circa 1990

Material: Wool pile on cotton foundation

Dimensions: 6' x 3' 5" ft

Kashan rugs originate from Kashan, an oasis town in central Iran along the Kavir desert. It is one of Iran's oldest cities, with archaeological excavations in the Sialk hills indicating that prehistoric humans lived here. Kashan had a well-established silk area rug industry as early as the 17th century. Kashan rugs are still woven according to the time-honored traditions of the old masters, using the same basic designs. Kashan rugs were once widely coveted by kings and could be found on palace walls all over the world. As a result, it is also referred to as "the palace carpet."

Extremely dense Persian knots are used to weave Kashan rugs, producing an exquisite object of art.