Carpets, originally developed by nomadic cultures in Central and West Asia, became integral to modern European life through centuries of cultural and commercial exchanges between Europe and the Middle East. This study explores the overarching trends in the import and export of Oriental carpets, focusing on their broader societal impact in Europe rather than individual case studies. Oriental carpets likely arrived in Europe as early as the 11th century, with their depiction in literature and art increasing significantly from the 14th century. Carpet exports from the East became prominent during the 15th and 16th centuries, a period when Renaissance painters frequently featured them in their works. Initially luxury items for European royalty and aristocracy, carpets gradually spread to other social classes with the expansion of wealth. Serving as symbols of authority and tools for interior decoration, carpets also fulfilled practical and aesthetic roles in European households. By emulating Eastern designs, Europe developed its own carpet production industry, with France and England becoming major centers. European carpets were subsequently exported to the Orient, including the Ottoman Empire, where they influenced local designs. European powers also established carpet factories in the Ottoman Empire, securing monopolistic control and influencing the region's carpet industry. Although carpets did not cause radical societal change, they subtly influenced European culture, art, and spatial practices. Still in use today, carpets symbolize enduring cultural and industrial exchanges between East and West.
Sun‐ah Choi (Mon,) studied this question.