The rug before you has a rich texture, is painstakingly made by hand, and explodes with deep color. You compliment the owner on this fine Oriental rug. Instead of a smile, you receive a snooty reproof: "It's a Persian rug," its owner says. Have you committed a flooring faux pas?
Persian and Oriental: A Word About the Words
In other contexts, "Persian" and especially "Oriental" are somewhat outdated terms. The country of Persia formally changed its name to "Iran" in 1935; some of its residents considered Iran the name of their country much earlier than that. While the ancient Persian Empire once stretched from Africa across what we now consider the Middle East, "Persian" for most modern purposes means "Iranian."
"Oriental" simply means "Eastern," and as a geographic locator is a much broader term. In the carpet context, it refers generally to southern and southeastern Asia, and countries such as Afghanistan, China, India, Pakistan, and other neighboring countries, including Iran.
What's This Mean to Me?
Strictly speaking, a Persian rug comes from within the borders of Iran; an Oriental rug may come from Iran or any other Middle or Far Eastern country. Some purists hold that Persian rugs are the last word in quality and design; others believe fine rugs can be found anywhere in these countries. While a rug's nation of origin may have some effect on its value, the quality of the rug -- expressed in materials, weave, pattern and color - means much more. If you're reading this article, you're probably not a collector. So don't get hung up on the lingo - just find an Oriental rug or Persian rug that fits your budget and decor.
