A recent exhibition held in the rug weaving centre of Isfahan showcased traditional Persian gardens across Iran, including those located at Chahar Bagh, Farahabad, Yazd, and Tabriz. The history of Persian gardens is believed to date back well before common era. Evidence of this appears at Chahar Bagh, where one may still see the remains of the illustrious garden of Cyrus the Great (circa 500BCE), the founder of the Achaemenid (Persian) Empire.
Gardens across Persian were (and still are) a place of solace, and featured a multitude of plants that were not only aesthetically pleasing, but more importantly, provided sustenance and were beneficial for health. They flourished in a society that appreciated nature and the gifts it provided.
Garden Carpet
Rugweavers drew upon these flourishing gardens for inspiration. The “Garden Carpet” is a specific type of traditional Persian floorcovering. Its design is the image of a Persian garden, usually gloriously in full bloom. Trees, flowers, streams and other features of a garden can be seen, sections created by vertical paths on which figures may be traversing. In the centre of the design may be a structure, perhaps a water body visited by animals.
Today, Garden Carpets may be categorized as “Pictorial Carpets” since their design captures an image.
Appreciation for nature has also been expressed in traditional Persian rugs and carpets that may not be considered as Garden Carpets. In fact, almost all designs, regardless of origin, feature some form of flower or plant, whether it be the complete form or just a portion of it. Designs may feature a single tree of life, clusters of flowerheads, or a border composed of vines – whatever it may be, the usage of flowers and plants express a profound affinity with nature.





The handmade Persian Rugs we have at Mondart come in a beautiful array of colours acquired from natural dyes. A single rug may have up to 15 different colours. Common colours, such as browns, blues and reds, may vary from light and subtle (which create an airy space) to rich and dark (which create the illusion of a smaller, more intimate space). A single rug may boast a number of colours, but there is always one that dominates – and it is this shade that should be considered when finding a rug suitable for your home.

highly experienced weaver possesses. Each accurately coloured yarn knotted onto the foundation of the rug must be precisely placed to replicate its model, as realistically as possible. They are truly works of art that have the potential of becoming precious heirlooms within your family.
Dragons may not be unique to Chinese culture, but they certainly are close to ubiquitous when it comes to Chinese art, and in particular, rugs. They are mythical creatures that may vary slightly in appearance according to the artist, but essentially all have a camel-like face, a long snake-like body covered in 117 scales, and a large tail. Male dragons have horns on their heads while females have none. Some dragons may have wings. They are noble creatures that are admired for their strength, dominance, and longevity.
