|
Classical Chinese carpets were first described by Marco Polo, yet to this day they are not particularly well-known in the rest of the world. The use of symbols from Chinese philosophy expresses the thought of the master Lao-Tsu, the teachings of the Tao, the influence of the forces of yin and yang, and are perhaps most appealing to one who has a personal inclination to Chinese thought. More suitable for the typical European interior are the Persian patterns woven in China by its 300-million strong Muslim community, or the cheap Aubussons and more expensive Savonneries, a legacy from the French. Chinese silk of is exceptional quality. The names of Chinese carpets indicate the origin of the pattern, and not the place of manufacture, as is common elsewhere. |
|