May 15 2006
Antique Indian Agra Rugs - History and Info
The city of Agra was the Mughal capital from 1566-1569 and again from 1601-1658 and is the site of the Taj Mahal, which was built in the 17th century. Handmade rugs have been made in Agra since the Mughal period and it is probable that some of the great carpets of this period were made there.
The Indians themselves had never had much need for large carpets and the craft was introduced relatively late. During the 17th century, a number of skillful Persians were called in to impart their weaving knowledge in India. Large carpet factories were started in Lahore; the patterns as well as the knotting closely resembled Persian work. A number of antique carpets from this time are now found in museums throughout Europe and America.
Since the end of the 19th century, carpets in India have been primarily woven to order and have been made with the finest quality in mind. Now, Agra carpets are considered some of the most decorative pieces internationally.
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