What makes an Oriental rug so captivating—its elegant design, intricate patterns, or the mystery of its origins? In this richly illustrated course, you discover the stories woven into these remarkable textiles. You travel through the history and artistry of rug and carpet weaving, a tradition rooted in Asia and North Africa, with examples dating back to the 4th century BCE. Using stunning visuals and expert insights, you explore major carpet-making cultures and regions including Anatolia, Iran, Transcaucasia, North Africa, and Central Asia. Learn to recognize defining features of Oriental rugs: weaving traditions (nomadic and settled), key historical periods (from the Early Modern era through the 19th century), purposes (from prayer to decoration), and production contexts (from royal courts to bustling markets). You are also introduced to basic methods for identifying weave structures and deepen your appreciation of these remarkable works of art. Click here for a promo video. https://vimeo.com/1138960957?fl=ml&fe=ec
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