Tribal Rugs: Treasures of the Black Tent

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1851492682 ISBN 13: 9781851492688

Publisher: Antique Collectors Club Ltd, 1997

This text explores one of the most ancient crafts in the world. Beginning with the discovery of the oldest complete rug which has been dated to the 5th century BC, the reader is led through the weaving history of the nomadic peoples of Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, the Caucasus and Central Asia, right up to the present day. Each chapter introduces a different group of tribes, their carpets, rugs, kilims and utilitarian bags attributed to their weavers.The book is both a celebration of the woven legacy left by the tribes and a tribute to the skill and artistry of the women who created these wonderful works of tribal art.

About the Author:

Brian W. MacDonald was born in Inverness, Scotland. He spent five years in Iran in the 1970s, including a year with two tribal groups: the Afshar of Kerman and the Qashqa i of Fars. He was elected a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society in 1990 for his work among the Persian tribes. He lectures on Eastern rugs.

Review:

"MacDonald makes the study of a complex subject enlightening and persuasive, and a very pleasant read brining the reader right up to the 21st century" The Royal Society for Asian Affairs, November 2010