June 2007.  We might as well have been on the moon.  We didn’t speak the language, didn’t get the dress code, couldn’t recognize the food.  With all the beautiful places in the world, how does one end up in the middle of Iran?

It’s a place you go with a purpose.  Our purpose was twofold.  To have first pick of the beautiful Gabbeh rugs that can only be found here, and to spend time with the nomadic tribe that creates them.

We were successful on both counts.  Our selection of rugs is unequaled.  And that’s important.  But what the three of us will hold with us for the rest of our lives is the time we spent with the Quashqai…joyful, generous, affectionate people who shared their lives with us.  They fed us, gave us shelter, and imparted in us the deepest appreciation for their craft and their culture. 

Our thanks to Sanjay, Ali, Hamid, and Reza who tolerated our endless questions and our  constant need for food and caffeine.  We look forward to returning to this gorgeous country and we send our greetings and affection to our new friends there.