Persian Rugs and Carpets: The Fabric of Life

Persian Rugs and Carpets: The Fabric of Life presents a pictorial journey around Persia, reflecting the weaving and pattern styles of the many regions and tribes - including Esfahan, Kashan, Nain, Qum, Kerman, Tabriz, Bakhtiari, Senneh, Malayer and Qashqa'i - showing the vast range of carpets woven in Persia from about 1850 to the third quarter of the 20th century. The introductory text to each section explains the particular aspects of that region's weaving style. In addition, each caption gives an in-depth account of the carpet, not only the date and region in which it was woven, but also the motifs and patterns, the technique used, even the weaver, and, in the case of pictorial carpets, the fascinating stories being depicted.

The introductory essay 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. It also features points of note for the collector, such as conservation and cleaning, as well as highlighting the difficulties in dating rugs, and the problems with fakes.

Lavishly illustrated in colour throughout, Persian Rugs and Carpets: The Fabric of Life shows these carpets at their very best, with incredible clarity of detail, bringing together in one place the diversity of weaving styles and the great variety of patterns, allowing the reader to compare carpets at a glance.

This exquisite book - an essential addition to the bookshelves of all carpet collectors and aficionados - is a testament to the rich and vibrant art form of Persian carpets.

Born in Iran to a family with a long history of dealing in Persian carpets, perhaps it was inevitable that Essie Sakhai should become a respected expert on Oriental and Persian carpets, gaining much of his great knowledge from his father Benayahoo Sakhai. Essie lives in North London, though he spends most of his time at ESSIE CARPETS on the corner of Albemarle Street and Piccadilly in London's Mayfair, carrying on the family tradition started in the 18th century.

Essie is a true enthusiast and hopes through his extensive lectures, interviews and writing (his previous books include The Story of Carpets, which has been translated into many languages, and The Buyers' Guide) to share his knowledge and passion for carpets with a wider audience.