A local handwoven carpet business in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwest China blooms vibrant with the dedication of two generations. These artisans have not only woven economic prosperity for their community, but also ensured that the region's cultural heritage continues to flourish.

Kurban Mattohti at his carpet store, Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

Kurban Mattohti, 51, moved to Turpan city in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region at 17, selling carpets in the local market. Starting with a 5-square-meter stall, Mattohti's journey led him to open a store spanning over 500 square meters. 

Kalbinur Kurban at her carpet workshop, Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

His daughter, Kalbinur Kurban, 23, now manages the family business. "My family has been involved in producing handwoven woolen carpets," she said. "As the business grew, my father, driven by a passion to preserve this art, began an entrepreneurial journey, engaging skilled artisans with similar goals."

Carpet artisans weave a woolen carpet at a workshop in Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

Kurban's workshop employs 37 people and houses 150 handwoven carpet machines. Each year, the workshop produces 3,000 square meters of intricate carpets. The industry has provided employment and prosperity for local villagers and attracted experienced artisans, some with over 50 years of experience.

Over the years, the carpet business has witnessed a significant improvement, evolving from rudimentary setups to workshops producing intricately designed carpets. This year, Kurban expanded sales channels to online platforms, reaching international customers. "We are the only carpet-making enterprise in Turpan. With government support and dedication, we now export to markets including Germany, our largest international customer. In the domestic market, our carpets grace major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, and I plan to open a store there," Kurban explained.

Carpet artisans weave a woolen carpet at a workshop in Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

But Kurban's vision extends beyond economic empowerment. Her business has created job opportunities specifically for local women, providing them with training and a conducive work environment. This arrangement allows them to earn a livelihood while managing childcare responsibilities. During peak seasons, the monthly income for these female artisans can reach up to 13,000 yuan ($1,826).

A view of the carpet store, Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

Kurban's dedication to cultural preservation is woven into every knot. Her carpets feature patterns that showcase the unique characteristics of the Silk Road and capture the region's history. Additionally, Kurban’s family has a long-standing tradition of preserving Xinjiang’s folk culture and operates a themed museum to further this mission.

A view of Xinjiang antique items collected by Kurban Mattohti at a themed museum, Turpan city, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 16, 2023. [Photo by Wang Ziteng/China.org.cn]

"My father has collected antique items that have been passed down through generations in our village," Kurban said. "By hosting exhibitions, we aim to deepen people's understanding of Xinjiang's culture and history. Nowadays, we frequently receive visitors from distant cities who come specifically to see our exhibition. When I give them guided tours, I feel a great sense of accomplishment in my business."