The traditional art of the oriental weaving can be accurately dated as far back as the 5th Century BC to a carpet in almost perfect condition dug out of the burial mound of a Scythian Chieftain in the Pazyryk valley in Siberia. Preserved in ice, this prized possession woven by hand over 2,500 years ago, was discovered in 1947 and can be seen today in the Hermitage Museum in Leningrad.

The history of weaving rugs starts with nomadic tribes building makeshift looms and using wool from their wandering flocks of sheep. These rugs were designed depicting nature as seen by the weavers, flowers, animals and trees, or illustrating their culture and religious beliefs with symbols and motifs. They were hung from the walls of tents or huts, they were laid on the ground or floor, and they were used as seat covers or saddle bags - simply to sleep, live or to prey on. The first known oriental rugs came from Persia, Turkey and Egypt, the Caucasus and Central Asia - Marco Polo discovered some of the earliest fine Orientals in the 13th century whilst traveling in Persia. Prior to that time good specimens were scarce due to the perishable nature of carpets and the fact that they were made to be used. Much care was taken of rugs and carpets and the fact that they were greatly cherished and valued by those who owned them. At one time they were regarded as better than money and even used for paying taxes! The great Egyptian Queen Cleopatra actually presented herself to Caesar - rolled up inside a carpet! Rugs of a entirely different style and design emerged from China and Tibet usually featuring symbols of their Buddhist and Taoist religions. Finally India learned the art from the Persian weavers, developing a style to suit the tastes of their Mogul emperors.