More on today’s Oriental rugs

American Oriental Reproductions made on machine looms are so similar to the modern Orientals made in Persia by hand that you can't tell the difference without close inspection.

They have the same American designs and the same chemically produced shine. They are woven through to the back and have a fringe made by a continuation of the warp threads. One rug has even been made with a knotted pile.

These machine-made rugs are not nearly as closely woven or as intricate in design as the best Kashan quality, but they are far less expensive and are probably better and more durable than the cheap Lilihan.