The Little-Persia Story

The story of Little-Persia is one of passion, resilience, and a deep-rooted love for the exquisite artistry of Persian and Oriental rugs. It is a story that begins in Tehran, takes a detour through London, finds its home in Glasgow, and eventually echoes throughout the United Kingdom.

Our journey began in 2003 with Reza Cheshmehdoost, our founder and leading expert in Persian and Oriental rugs. Born in Iran, Reza moved to London in 1977 to pursue a degree in computer studies. Amidst his professional success in software consultancy, personal life led him to Scotland, where he planted roots and started a family near Glasgow.

The Iran-Iraq war led to a separation of more than a decade from his family. But when he was finally reunited with his loved ones in 1991, his father presented him with a gift - a small, handcrafted rug. This simple yet profound token ignited a passion in Reza, one that would influence the course of his life in unexpected ways.

The rug fascinated Reza. It was more than just a piece of woven material; it was an embodiment of changing colours, of history, of an art form that told stories in intricate patterns and hues. Most importantly it was a link to his family, of childhood memories and cherised family gatherings. The rug became a treasured possession, and soon, one led to many as Reza began to collect these pieces of art.

Over time, his house in Glasgow was filled with unique rugs he had lovingly curated. Realising he could no longer store them at home, yet unable to part with these precious artefacts, Reza seized an opportunity. He found a premise in Glasgow and transformed his hobby into a business. In April 2003, Little-Persia was born.

Today, Little-Persia is home to one of the largest collections of unique handmade rugs in the UK. Our unassuming storefront belies the wonder that awaits within – a treasure trove of over 2000 unique pieces, each one painstakingly handcrafted from silk, wool, and cotton.

Reza personally curates our collection, seeking out exceptional pieces from auctions and markets in Tehran. He brings a wealth of knowledge and an eye for detail that ensures only the highest quality rugs make it to our Glasgow showroom and online store.

At Little-Persia, we understand that owning such a rug is not merely about enhancing the aesthetics of your home. It's about embracing a piece of history, cherishing the unique stories etched into every pattern, and experiencing the luxury of timeless art under your feet. It's about owning a possession that is more than a decoration – it's a legacy.

With the assistance of our experienced in-house ex-weaver we offer not just rugs, but also professional cleaning, repair, and restoration services. We understand the sentimental value these rugs can hold as family heirlooms. We treat each piece with the care and respect it deserves, preserving its beauty for generations to come.

Through his father's gift, Reza discovered a deep love for these beautiful rugs, each a little piece of history in itself. His passion permeates every aspect of Little-Persia, evident in the quality of the rugs we offer and the services we provide. While the business has grown and evolved over the years, one thing remains the same: every rug is a reminder of the relationship between a father and son, an enduring testament to the love that sowed the seeds of Little-Persia.

Our rugs are not just bought, but chosen. Chosen by those who appreciate the beauty of intricate designs, who understand the value of time and effort invested into each piece, and who see their purchase as a long-term investment, a symbol of refinement, and a treasure to be passed down through generations.

From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a trusted name in the world of Persian and Oriental rugs. We invite you to explore our collection and become a part of our journey. At Little-Persia, we don't just sell rugs – we share pieces of history woven with stories, much like our own.