Tribal Rugs

Nomadic and Village Weavings from the Near East and Central Asia

by James Opie

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Bibliographic Details

Publisher: Tolstoy Pr
Published date: 2000
Edition: 2nd edition

Publisher's Notes

"Tribal Rugs" records & celebrates one of humankind's oldest surviving forms of artistic expression, encompassing knotted & flatwoven rugs, kilims, bags, & related objects from tribal & village populations of Asia. With 291 color illustrations & numerous black & white historical photos of tribespeople, James Opie offers a complete picture of Asian tribes, their woven art, & lifestyles associated with weaving traditions. The book's vast scope encompasses both nomadic & village weavings from Iran, Anatolia (Turkey), the Caucasus, Afghanistan, & areas further to the north & east in Central Asia. Lavish color illustrations appear throughout, including full-page details. There are twelve maps. A survey of each major tribal group comprises the heart of the book. Early chapters include examination of the Pazyryk rug, which lay intact in the frozen tomb of a nomadic chief for over 2000 years. The author discusses the ancient roots of tribal weaving, the interrelatedness of common designs, & the impact of urban workshops on tribal motifs. Based on eight trips to Iran & Afghanistan & aided by dealers, collectors, & museums throughout Europe & America, James Opie has created a volume which occupies, if not fills, an important niche in rug literature.