In a captivating display of opulence, the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai recently hosted an exclusive three-day event showcasing a breathtaking collection of rare, handmade Dh10-Million Persian Carpet by Heritage Carpet.
Among them, a Dh10-million masterpiece, with a rich history dating back hundreds of years, stole the spotlight. This extraordinary carpet, currently residing in the iconic Burj Al Arab, is not merely a floor covering but a timeless work of art, weaving together centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural richness.
Dh10-Million Persian Carpet
Heritage Carpet, a family-owned business with a lineage tracing back five generations to Persia (present-day Iran), has curated an extensive assortment of premium, handcrafted carpets that reflect the intricate artistry of a bygone era. The showcased Dh10-Million Persian Carpet, a product of the nomadic Bakhtiari tribe, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Persian carpet making.
Afshin Ghanbarinia, Vice Chairman of Heritage Carpet, shed light on the unique qualities of the Dh10-Million Persian Carpet, emphasizing its special order nature. The carpet, bearing a massive signature indicating the person for whom it was made, boasts a size of nearly 6 by 4 meters and features an unusual combination of colors and designs. Despite being exposed to daily activities in its original setting, the carpet remains in perfect condition, a testament to the craftsmanship that took seven years and multiple weavers to complete.
The Bakhtiari, known for their nomadic lifestyle, employed a distinctive carpet-making style, eschewing templates and relying on their creativity. The Dh10-Million Persian Carpet’s colors, derived from specific seeds and natural sources, have retained their vibrancy over the centuries. Afshin emphasized the sustainability of these carpets, crafted from sheep’s wool with meticulous hand-cutting and hand-spinning techniques. The vegetable-based dyes and wood boiling for water heating contribute to a production process with a negligible carbon footprint, echoing a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these Dh10-Million Persian Carpets unfold diverse narratives, echoing scenes from a bygone era. Crafted from wool and silk, they feature motifs symbolizing fertility, abundance, and eternal life. The Ghanbarinia family, pioneers in the carpet-selling business since 1841, has seen their legacy continue with Heritage Carpet’s presence in 30 countries, featuring 85 showrooms and boutiques.
Amir Ghanbarinia, Managing Director of Heritage Carpet, sees Persian carpets as an essential item on the luxury checklist for the world’s wealthy. He draws parallels between owning a Persian carpet and other status symbols like a Rolls-Royce or a Rolex, emphasizing the enduring value of handmade carpets over time. In an age where investments are diverse, carpets represent heritage, a tangible connection to the past that transcends monetary value fluctuations.
Walter Hahn, a devoted private carpet collector with a passion spanning four decades, provides insights into the meticulous care and value preservation of these priceless pieces. Stored in cold rooms with optimal lighting conditions, these carpets are not just floor coverings but revered artifacts. Hahn notes that while price tags may be attached, the true beauty lies in the design and colors, with smaller carpets in the collection priced between $50,000 and $100,000.
Highlighting the unique craftsmanship, Hahn points out that the carpets boast intricate details with about 1,000 knots per square inch, showcasing the expertise of the weavers. The use of vegetable dyes that oxidize well ensures that the colors remain vibrant even after centuries, distinguishing them from faded counterparts. Hahn draws a parallel with collectible wines, noting that just like wines become collectibles over time, these carpets become artifacts of immense value.
In conclusion, the rare exhibition of Dh10-Million Persian Carpet at Burj Al Arab provides a glimpse into a world where tradition, craftsmanship, and opulence intersect. Each carpet, a testament to the rich history of Persian carpet making, is not just an investment in luxury but a connection to a timeless heritage that transcends generations. As these carpets continue to weave their way into the hearts and homes of collectors worldwide, their stories unfold, echoing the whispers of centuries past.