Category: (Book)
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"One of the most useful books to cover the whole of the
field...Mr. Ford is to be congratulated on having produced a work
that should stand the test of time."—Carpet Review
Weekly
In this comprehensive survey, P. R. J. Ford shows readers how to
recognize the different structural and design features of oriental
rugs and carpets. The designs are grouped according to their
essential characteristics. This approach illuminates the cultural
background of each, revealing at once the similarities and the
differences between the various carpet-weaving areas
Illustrations of modern types, with descriptions of their key
characteristics—construction, materials, sizes, colors—and of
the clues that establish a rug's precise origins, appear together
with a balanced appraisal of the qualities of modern production
from towns, villages, and tribal areas. Extensive cross-referencing
and detailed indexes make this an invaluable reference guide for
dealers and collectors, and for anyone who has an appreciation of
and interest in rugs. 800+ illustrations and photographs, 400 in
color.
very interesting bookReviewed by Aliki Maxoutoglou, 2009-12-28
helpful, easy to read, nice job, it will be the right-hand of the specialists in carpets
Good, but perhaps something for a time capsuleReviewed by Eric Trowbridge, 2009-11-07
This is a comprehensive, well-researched, and lavishly illustrated guide to Oriental carpet design. Despite this, the book is actually rather limited in its coverage: the vast majority of the rugs the author describes are from the mid-20th century. For various reasons - including the disappearance of traditional weaving methods (notably characterized by the widespread adoption of synthethic dyes) and the "industrialization" of carpet making in several parts of Asia - this is not an era that collectors particularly esteem. And, while there are high-quality pieces from that period on the market, they are the exception rather than the rule. Therefore, "Oriental Carpet Design" may somewhat disappoint serious collectors, and will provide novices a surfeit of information on rugs from a very specific time in history. As an alternative, while it focuses on 19th century, museum-quality rugs which are beyond the reach of most of us, I think Murray Eiland's "Oriental Carpets: A Complete Guide" remains the best single volume on the subject.
Outstanding ResourceReviewed by Nancy L. Beebe, 2008-12-14
This book is an outstanding resource for anyone from novice to expert, who wants to identify or has an interest in oriental carpets and rugs.
Excellent!Reviewed by Bruno Ferraz Coutinho, 2008-07-03
The book is a very well written vol d'oiseau over modern oriental rugs and carpets with excellent pictures and timely historical notes. Certainly one of the best works available in the field both to beginners and connoisseurs.
Oriental Carpet DesignReviewed by N. Pemberton, 2007-02-17
This is an excellent book to find all the information one needs on Persian and Oriental carpets. Very informative, and beautiful colour plates.