World-renowned Iranian sculptor Parviz Tanavoli has generously donated a collection of 408 Persian flatweave rugs, kilims, and carpets to the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Ministry (CHTHM). This significant donation was formalized in an agreement signed between Deputy Minister Mohammad-Hassan Talebian and Tanavoli’s daughter, Tandis, as his legal representative in Iran.
The collection, meticulously curated over six decades, comprises rare and invaluable pieces woven by Iranian nomads, many of which represent disappearing traditions. “My father has collected these treasures from villages and nomads across Iran. Most of these rugs are no longer produced, and the nomads who created them have also vanished,” Tandis remarked during the meeting.
Several books, authored by Tanavoli, document the collection, which he believes belongs to Iran and should be preserved for future generations. Nine pieces will be displayed permanently at the Carpet Museum of Iran, while the entire collection will be showcased in an upcoming temporary exhibition.
Additionally, a historic house in Shiraz is being considered as a dedicated museum for Tanavoli’s artworks and the donated collection. A feasibility study involving cultural heritage experts and Tanavoli’s family is planned for next week.
Tanavoli, also a poet and art collector, has extensively studied and documented Iranian nomad carpets in works such as Shahsavan Iranian Rugs and Textiles and Persian Flatweaves. His contributions to art and heritage are further honored with a Tehran street being renamed after him.
