Their vivid colours and attractive designs, often combined with supreme workmanship, make these Oriental tapestry-woven rugs a fascinating study. In this book, the first to be devoted entirely to kilims, the author has chosen to study kilims in general, examining as many examples as possible, and grouping them typologically and geographically. The result constitutes the first comprehensive review of an art form whose importance and outstanding artistic merit has hitherto gone unrecognized. The functions of kilims are varied, but always practical--coverings for furniture, rugs, prayer mats, door-hangings--thus reflecting a mentality which conceives of beauty not in the abstract, but within the context of everyday life. The kilims illustrated demonstrate an astonishing variety of design, pattern and technique; their structure is explained clearly, with accompanying diagrams; and their geographical and social background is outlined and illustrated. Kilims will interest all those intrigued by cultures outside their own, as well as collectors of Islamic art, architects, interior designers, students of primitive and tribal art, and the growing number of carpet-makers. -- Inside jacket flap.

Bold, distinctive patterns; brilliant colors; affordability-these are some of the characteristics that explain the overwhelming popularity of the exquisite, flatwoven textiles from the Near and Far East known as kilims. The most comprehensive and beautifully illustrated survey to date, Kilim contains hundreds of color photographs accompanied by an authoritative text examining the origins, history, and weaving techniques of these unique cloths. A directory to international kilim auction houses; a source listing of dealers and services; and a reference guide to the collecting, care, and further study of kilims conclude this definitive work on a widely appealing subject.

From fleece, yarn, and dyeing to looms and weaves, the visual language, tribal weavers, and meaning, origins, and aesthetics of the kilim, this book provides an ideal and up-to-date summary of the subject.

For those seeking inspiration from these striking, tribal rug designs and those who want to own them, this is the perfect guide. It's packed with 235 big, striking color photos, and simply presented as a guide for both would-be buyers and for rug owners seeking the story behind their precious finds. Buying a rug can be a traumatic experience. Author and rug dealer Susan Gomersall sets out to answer the questions you always wanted to ask a rug dealer, but felt too intimidated to do so. Each chapter tells one tribe's story: a little bit of their history, a little bit about their present-day circumstances, and descriptions of the rugs they weave. Both antique and modern rugs can be found in each chapter, and some indication of what these generally cost in a retail situation.

In recent years kilims have become sought after both as functional and as decorative items. Their versatility, the beauty of their colours and patterning and their reasonable prices all help to explain this level of interest, but the abundance of patterns and style has made the search for the right kilim a bewildering process. This comprehensive guide ensures that independent advice is now available.

As well as information on their history and origins, types and techniques, and guidance on buying and valuing, cleaning and repairing, this guide to using kilims in the home also contains over 250 photographs providing hundreds of decorative ideas.

Essays and information on the countyr of kazakhstan heavily illustrated with photos.

Designs from the Islamic countries of North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia.