Dorothy Armstrong
Historian of material culture focused on South, Central, and West Asia and author of Threads of Empire: A History of the World in Twelve Carpets, who appears to explain carpet histories and anecdotes in the episode.
Top 3 podcasts with Dorothy Armstrong
Ranked by the Snipd community
Nov 26, 2025 • 22min
Weaving Together the History of Carpets
Join historian Dorothy Armstrong, an expert on South, Central, and West Asian material culture, as she unravels the rich tapestry of carpet history. Discover how carpets transcend decoration, connecting master weavers to empires. Dorothy shares how they became status symbols in Renaissance art and discusses the influence of religion and power through textiles. She explores modern weaving in Pakistan and the resilience of Turkmen culture. Plus, get insider tips on what to look for when buying a carpet!
Sep 10, 2025 • 1h 14min
Dorothy Armstrong, "Threads of Empire: A History of the World in Twelve Carpets" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)
Dorothy Armstrong, a historian specializing in the material culture of South, Central, and West Asia, delves into the fascinating history embodied in carpets. She reveals how these textiles reflect power dynamics, spirituality, and cultural narratives throughout time. Armstrong discusses the stark divide between wealthy carpet consumers and the artisans who create them, highlighting women's historical struggles in the craft. From the ancient Paziric carpet to imperial Ottoman legacies, her insights weave a rich tapestry of history and artistry.
Sep 10, 2025 • 1h 14min
Dorothy Armstrong, "Threads of Empire: A History of the World in Twelve Carpets" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)
Dorothy Armstrong, a historian specializing in the material culture of South, Central, and West Asia, dives into the captivating narratives behind twelve iconic carpets. She reveals how these textiles have symbolized power and status throughout history, sought after by emperors and captured in major historical events. Armstrong highlights the often overlooked stories of the weavers behind these masterpieces, especially women in Iran. By intertwining art and politics, she challenges conventional perceptions and emphasizes the cultural significance embedded in these stunning creations.
