Ramin’s Story

I left Afghanistan during the Cold War when I was eleven years old. Years later, after working with the United Nations, I returned to Afghanistan at twenty-four. There, I witnessed the difficult lives of Afghan families, especially women living in rural and tribal communities.

Since childhood, I have loved the beauty and artistry of handmade rugs. Every rug carries a story of patience, skill, and hard work. Behind every knot and every pattern is the hand of an artisan, often working to provide something as simple and essential as food for the family.

Yet many Afghan artisans receive very little for that work.

Piedmont Rugs was founded to honor their craftsmanship, share these remarkable works of art, and help create better opportunities for the Afghan artisans and families who depend on rug-making for their livelihood.

For me, these rugs are more than beautiful objects. They are a connection to a place, a people, and a tradition that has been passed from one generation to the next. I want to share that connection with you.