Smithsonian Collection by Surya

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The Smithsonian Collection was created by the Smithsonian Institution which is the world’s largest museum and research complex. The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846, and now consists of nineteen museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities in more than ninety countries. They also have 168 million artifacts and their own personal channel.

It all started when the Smithsonian Institution was founded for the "increase and diffusion" of knowledge from an inheritance to the United States by the British scientist James Smithson. Smithson never actually visited the new nation but decided to share his wealth anyway. In his will, he declared that if his nephew, Henry James Hungerford, should die without heirs, then his Smithson estate will be passed over to the government of the United States. He wanted them to create an "Establishment for the increase & diffusion of Knowledge among men". After the death of his nephew in 1835, President Andrew Jackson told the Congress about the inheritance that was given to them by Smithson. This inheritance amounted to 104,960 gold sovereigns which was at the time US$500,000. In 2008 that number was amounted to $10,100,997 because of inflation. The money was invested in unsteady state bonds, and defaulted soon after. Former President John Quincy Adams fought to restore the lost funds with interest and won after a debate they had in Congress. Congress also debated whether or not the federal government had the authority to accept the gift. Congress accepted the gift so generously given to the nation and pledged the faith of the United States to the charitable trust on July 1, 1836. Many of the Institution's buildings are now used as historical and architectural landmarks.

The Smithsonian Institution also owns their channel. The Smithsonian Channel where they talk about history, life and culture. Smithsonian Networks is a JV partnership with CBS Corporation's Showtime Networks and the Smithsonian Institution. Smithsonian Networks is also available on Time Warner Cable, AT&T U-verse and Charter Communications.

Surya and Rugs HQ have now collaborated with the world's largest museum to create the Smithsonian Collection. This is an exclusive Collection and it includes plush hand-tufted rugs which are made with soft New Zealand wool. Inspiration for our Smithsonian collection of rugs was conceived from fabrics found in the Smithsonian's abundant archives. The original pieces and their time periods are reflected by the color palettes. Each rug is vibrant and made to compliment today's modern sense of aesthetics. The rugs represent a wide range of cultures and historical provenances. For example the nineteenth century studies of ornamental and decorative designs from Egypt, nineteenth century American textiles, China and the middle ages, and others. This is a beautiful collection of rugs and can add a historical sophisticated yet contemporary look to any home.

Look through our Smithsonian Collection on Rugs HQ!