The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s new Nomadic Wisdom exhibit showcases ancient felt storage artifacts alongside modern reinterpretations:

• 13th Century: Mongol warriors used felt saddlebags (precursor to modern bins)
• Modern Twist: Hermès Home‘s $1,200 “Nomad” basket with hand-stitched leather trim
• Artisan Impact: Kyrgyz cooperatives report 300% order increase from design hotels

“These aren’t just containers – they’re cultural conduits,” says curator Dr. Anar Jumadilova. The exhibit runs through December with workshops on traditional wet-felting.