Rug
Object NameRug
DateEarly 20th century
OriginNorthwest Iran?
MediumWool
Dimensions283 × 156 in. (718.8 × 396.2 cm)
ClassificationsTextiles and Apparel
Credit LineGift of David Shugart. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object number80.22.1
Status
On viewCultureIranian
Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025:
Large rugs would have warmed any Victorian home, adding vibrancy and embellishment. The wood floor of the large Parlor room of the Farm House is home to the “Curtiss rug.” Though the nickname is likely a misnomer, the “Curtiss rug” is a fine example of Iranian carpet production. This rug did belong to Helen Curtiss Whittaker and the donor, Helen’s nephew, received it at upon Helen’s death. The rug fits the parlor of the Farm House Museum; however, this does not appear to be the same rug as the one from a photograph taken in the Farm House in the early 1920s. What is clear is that the Farm House residents embraced the Victorian trend of ornate room-sized carpets.
There is a long tradition of fine textiles from many regions of Iran with carpet weaving techniques dating to the Middle Ages characterized by intricately tied knots and delicately woven patterns. Traditional hand-knotting techniques were eventually replaced by machines, resulting in increased affordability of rugs throughout the 1900s. This exceptionally large carpet (283 × 156 inches) has a medium weave and features typical bold colors in blue, cream, and red in a complex trailing floral and geometric design. The next time you are in the Farm House Museum, be sure to look down and embrace the many rugs that adorn the wood floors.
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Farm House Museum, Parlor
