Persian Rugs and Carpets: The Fabric of Life

This book shows the vast range and quality of carpets woven in Persia from about 1850 to 1980. In addition, there is a discussion of rugs woven in countries or areas adjacent to Persia itself, particularly those rugs which either fell or fall into the Persian geographical or cultural orbit: Caucasian weavings, Turkish and Hereke silk rugs and certain weavings which have strong Persian and Islamic influences. The in-depth introduction takes the reader through the history and geography of the Persian rug, including information on structure, weaving and knotting; the different output of the city and urban workshops compared to tribal and village weaving; flatweaves; and identification and dating, as well as points of note for the collector, such as conservation and cleaning.The carpets are divided into geographical areas, including Esfahan, Kerman, Tabriz, Bakhtiari, Senneh and Malayer, among others; each section comes with an introductory text and comprehensive, informative captions. This exquisite book, lavishly illustrated in colour throughout, is a testament to this rich and vibrant art form.