newsweek.ro/istorie/carpeta-cu-rapirea-din-serai-t

The carpet featuring "Răpirea din Serai" was a popular decorative item in Romanian homes during the communist era, despite its kitschy appeal. Priced between 1,500 and 1,800 lei, it was a significant expense when the average salary ranged from 2,500 to 3,000 lei. Approximately 10-15% of households owned one by 1990. The carpet depicts a scene from Mozart's opera, illustrating a nobleman's attempt to rescue his beloved from an Ottoman harem. Originally produced in Arab countries, particularly Libya, it was brought to Romania by sailors. After 1990, it became a symbol of kitsch, yet some still seek to buy it, with listings reaching prices over 5,000 lei, and one even priced at 100,000 lei.