Weaving And Silk Trade in Safavid Iran: Economic Power and A Strategic Tool in International Relations

Abstract

The Safavid Empire's urbanization process led to significant progressions in the textile industry, particularly silk production, and trade emerged as vital elements of the Iranian economy. State-sponsored weaving shops were mostly established in major towns such as Isfahan, Shirvan, and Kashan that wove silk fabrics, producing the most valuable inputs for Iran’s economic and political relationships with both Eastern and Western powers. These weaving activities began around Shah Ismail’s reign before they fell into a momentary decline on account of an impending threat from Ottomans, but they were later reignited by Shah Abbas I. By monopolizing the silk trade and integrating it into a state-controlled system, he turned into Silk Iran’s most important export item, also promoting its production through making Gilan and Mazandaran royal provinces. This enabled firm trading ties with the West while making Iranian silk known globally. In the later periods of the Safavid Empire as well, during the time of Shah Sultan Hussein, production and trade of silk continued to be significant. However, there was a gradual decrease in demand for Iranian silk from bordering nations. Nevertheless, silk trade and textile production in Safavid Iran have left an indelible mark that has made them memorable in the annals of world textile commerce.