KILIM - THE COMPLETE GUIDE, HISTORY, PATTERN, TECHNIQUE, IDENTIFICATION

Some books are classics in their field and deserve to be described as "essential" reference tools. This is one such book. It is informative but, even more important, comprehensive, well written, and beautifully illustrated with more than 600 photographs, many in color, of Kilims--classic rugs from the Middle East that have become increasinly popular. In the opening chapters, the authors have provided information on how kilims are made, the construction of looms, and the dyes and dyeing techniques used. They also analyze motifs and symbolism employed by the weavers. In separate sections the authors next discuss the four major kilim producing areas of the world: North Africa, Anatolia, Persia (and the Caucasus), and Afghanistan. The book concludes with a chapter on new kilims and how to evaluate them, an excellent glossary, a chapter on rug care, and a list of kilim dealers and auctioneers throughout the world. Despite its relatively high cost, this book is essential for all art libraries and most public libraries.