A legacy woven in time
Our family journey in the world of oriental carpets
Five generations devoted to craftsmanship, culture, and trust
Every carpet tells a story: of heritage, craftsmanship, and culture. For me, that story has lived not only in the rugs I have collected and shared, but in the journey towards building a family business that has now become a generational legacy.
What began decades ago as a personal passion for handmade Oriental carpets, slowly evolved into something far greater. I was captivated by the intricate workmanship, the harmony of colours, and the timeless beauty woven into every handmade rug. Each piece carried with it a sense of history and identity...the fingerprints of tradition.
The beginning
In the early years progress came through patience and perseverance. But, with unwavering dedication and belief in the craft, the business began to grow. Customers became friends; people who did not just purchase carpets, but appreciated the stories and heritage behind each one.
Bokhara, Uzbekistan
Our story finds its roots in the city of Bokhara, Uzbekistan, where my great-grandfather laid the foundations of the family’s trade, over a century ago. Under his direction, my grandfather was sent to Kabul to expand the business, continuing a tradition that would span generations.
Kabul, Afghanistan
Amritsar, India
At the time, Amritsar was one of the main trading hubs between Kabul and British India. It was here that my father and his siblings were born and taught the trade, to carry the business forward. My father’s clientele consisted largely of the British community in India and, after the India-Pakistan Partition, various parts of the British Empire, including Kenya and, eventually, Aden, Yemen, where he became an official supplier to the Royal Air Force.
Aden, Yemen
My own early years were spent in Aden, and later, from the mid-1960s, in London. Under the tutelage of my cousin, who had been trained by my father, I was introduced to the world of fine carpets, often visiting stately homes and catering to members of the gentry. These formative experiences helped me gain a deeper appreciation not just for the value of the product, but the relationships and trust that underpin this trade.
London, United Kingdom
Saudi Arabia
Eventually, I made my way to the Middle East, settling in Saudi Arabia during a period of extraordinary growth driven by the oil boom. The expanding expatriate community formed the backbone of my clientele. As our collection grew, so did our reach, always guided by a commitment to quality, authenticity, and integrity.
Our showroom in The Marriott in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
A generational movement
The true strength of this journey has always been family.
My children grew up surrounded by these exquisite rugs; watching, listening, absorbing. Over the years, they developed the same appreciation I have. Slowly and naturally, the business became part of who we are as a family.
Today, I stand at a meaningful crossroads. After years of nurturing this business, I am passing the torch on to the fifth generation. My children are stepping in with fresh perspectives, new energy, and a modern vision, while holding firmly to the values and traditions that have shaped our path.
This is not just a handover, it is the preservation of a legacy. Just as every carpet is patiently woven knot by knot, this business has been built layer by layer, generation by generation.
My father, Inayat Gul Aga
My grandfather, Agha Deen Gul
This was never just about selling rugs. It was about honouring a centuries-old craft, and allowing people to see not only the beauty, but the cultural significance of what they were bringing into their homes.
My interview in The Arab News, June 1997
The World’s Largest Carpet
To all who have walked this journey with us; our customers, friends, and well-wishers, I offer my deepest gratitude.
The legacy continues, and I am proud to know it rests in the hands of those who will honour it, enrich it, and help it grow.
Maqsood Gul Aga