A Young Rug Craftsperson in Iran

Hello, this is shop manager Kimura. When I visited a rug-washing and repair workshop in Iran, I saw a boy diligently stitching in one corner. His hands moved as briskly as those of the adults around him. I have tried the work myself: the dense rug foundation makes my fingers ache after just a dozen or so stitches. His taped fingers showed how demanding it is.

At first I wondered whether this might be child labour. I was told he was helping during the summer holidays, which eased my concern at the time. Already skilled with his hands, he said he had not yet decided on a future career.

One remarkable quality of Iranian handwoven rugs is that they are still made by hand using traditional methods.

Once they reach a Japanese shop, it is easy to compare their finish and rank them. Yet each represents a great deal of work. I hope seeing the care taken far away helps you choose and use a rug with a deeper appreciation.