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The carpet
industry today has reached a new zenith as Indian carpets
have earned a global recognition for their exquisite
designs, attractive color, subtle elegance, and workmanship.
Carpet weaving in India can be dated back to pre historic
times.
The art of weaving
woolen carpets in India was known as early as 500 B.C.
References to woven mats and floor coverings can be found in
ancient as well as medieval Indian literature. The Mughal
Dynasty during the reign of Akbar witnessed the flourishing
of the Indian Carpet Industry. Akbar’s Historian, Abul Fazl
wrote that Akbar “has caused carpets to be made of wonderful
varieties and charming textures, he has appointed
experienced workmen, who have produced many masterpieces”.
Around the end of the 16th century in 1580 A.D. he called
upon various carpet weavers from Persia (now Iran) with the
purpose of setting up of a Royal Workshop in the Emperor’s
Palace.
The designs
produced were a unique blend of Persian and Indian art and
were meant to cater to the royal flavor. During Akbar’s
reign the carpets were produced from cotton warp and wool
pile. Multiple shades of blues, greens, and other colors on
a red base were widely used. These designs flourished
extensively in the northern part of India especially so in
Kashmir, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
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