I wanted to see what Kurds did or had that made their well-being of importance to the vital interests of the
United States.
As far as I can tell, Kurds don't do much besides try to survive, which isn't easy, since they don't have a
nation of their own and are spread out over several countries, none of which treat them well.
As to what they have--no, it isn't oil, gold, diamonds or even titanium, the hot precious metal of the 1990s
since it is used in manufacturing over-priced golf clubs.
The leading manufactured product of the Kurds is rugs.
Rug dealers in Chicago say the Kurds make a fine rug, but they're almost impossible to find because they
used to be exported out of Iran, but we've had an embargo on Iranian products for almost 10 years.
But if you are interested in Kurdish rugs, here is what a couple of rug merchants say:
Sohil Khan, owner of A-L Sahara Oriental Rugs on Grand Avenue, said:
"Kurdish rugs are more tribal in design and style. They have a certain design and are flat woven like you
see on a blanket. They are very durable and will last you forever. I've seen 40- to 50-year-old rugs that are
in great shape and are very expensive.
"The style is called kilim. They are mostly made of wool and they are lightweight because the Kurds are
nomads and move from one place to another. They are light and easy to carry and their owners can take
them from place to place.
"The price is determined by the age and quality of the rug. It depends on the age, the dye and the quality. A
rug that is 6 feet by 9 feet would run from $1,100 to $3,000.
"Now a 6-by-9 from China would run from $600 to $2,000. A 6-by-9 Persian would run from $1,000 to
$10,000 to $15,000, depending on the quality.''
Sarkis Tatosian, co-owner of Isberian Oscar Rugs in Evanston, said: "Kurdish rugs, relative to Persian rugs,
are a little more course. But they are woven with a lot more heart than a lot of other pieces.
"They are truly nomadic cottage-industry rugs. In some places, they make them just for export, but not the
Kurds. They make them for their own use. It is to keep them warm and for floor coverings. They are more
ornate and fancier in design. They are more geometric and tribal than other Oriental rugs. Similar to rugs
made in the American Southwest.
"They are collectibles, especially the older ones. They are held in high regard because they aren't woven in
mass quantities.''
The Kurds also raise lots of sheep for wool and to make cheese.
But since we have more than enough sheep of our own, as well as a greater variety, I doubt that the
Kurdish sheep are a factor in our shooting missiles to protect our interest.
At least I hope not. Putting Stealth fighters on alert for our vital interest in Kurdish sheep would be
embarrassing.
So it has to be the sturdy Kurdish rugs, although I haven't heard any of the talking heads from the Pentagon
or State Department say so.
But it doesn't seem to be worth the fuss since we can't get the rugs anyway.
Personally, I prefer Scandinavian-style rugs. They colorful, pretty and less expensive, and we don't have to
blow up any Swedes to get them.
