Who makes the best rugs?
Comparing Iranian city rugs to tribal rugs from Afghanistan would be a pointless exercise. Each has its own unique characteristics. For both old and new rugs, comparisons are best made within specific categories. Accurate information that fosters an understanding of these categories is essential to making these comparisons. Fortunately the vast diversity of handmade textiles is the subject of much writing and discussion. Trade publications like HALI, and Rug News provide an on-going exchange of information between collectors, scholars, dealers and others. The biannual International Conference on Oriental Carpets contributes to this exchange as well. The website rugnotes.com provides a steady flow of information. If determining “quality” is an important issue it is best to make comparisons within specific categories that include, age, origin, construction and condition.
