Kurdisch rugs

The Kurds are a group of people living in different countries in the Middle-East. Persian Kurds mainly live in northwest-Iran. Kurds are known worldwide for their struggle for independence. Some groups of Kurds feel oppressed and dream of a Kurdish state. The relations between Persian Kurds and other Iranian people are rather stable and friendly. Something that Kurdish people are not usually known for are the beautiful Persian carpets their artists make. Kurdish carpets are often more colourful than other Persian styles of carpets. Kurdish rugs are traditionally made in rather basic conditions. The artists work in tents made out of goat hair which are mobile to move along with the herds of animals and their shepherds. In winter the mountain tribes descend into the warmer valley and in summer they ascend to high mountain pastures to find fresh grass for the animals. It is said that Kurdish artists incorporate their experiences, hopes and dreams in the patterns of their rugs. Kurdish rugs are symbols for the diversity, resilience and hopes of independence of the Kurdish people.