Antique Oriental Rugs And Carpets

Welcome to the peculiar world of “Antique Oriental Rugs And Carpets,” an engaging tome penned by the ever-so-enigmatic Philip Bamborough, a man who clearly believed that the mere act of laying down a rug could be a philosophical statement on the human condition. Published in 1979 by Blandford Press, this book promises to weave a tapestry of knowledge, albeit one that may have seen better days—much like the carpets themselves.

What can one expect from a book with a title so straightforward, yet so full of potential for bewilderment? Here lies a compendium that may inspire you to spend your Saturday afternoons poring over the intricate knots and patterns of rugs that are older than your grandma’s recipes. One can only imagine the intense and riveting debates over whether a particular carpet is indeed ‘oriental’ or merely ‘a bit frayed around the edges.’

Throughout its faded pages, you’ll discover an almost obsessive focus on the cultural significance of these carpets, along with a detailed rundown of how to discern an authentic Persian from a mere imitation, which, let’s be honest, should have been titled “How to Ruin a Dinner Party with Unwanted Knowledge.” In a world where Pinterest boards are filled with minimalist decor, Bamborough’s work stands as a glorious reminder of a time when too much was never enough, especially when it came to floor coverings.

Delve into chapters that cover everything from the history of carpet-making to the painstakingly detailed art of rug care, which is somewhat ironic, considering that this particular copy has seen more action than a five-star hotel lobby rug. The author’s love for the subject leaps off the page like an excited cat who’s just spotted a laser dot—uncontained, a bit chaotic, and oddly charming.

• Fascinating footnotes on the role of carpets in ancient trade agreements.
• A guide to identifying the tell-tale signs of moth infestation—who knew?
• Insights into how a finely woven rug may have played a role in the downfall of empires.
• Surprisingly little mention of vacuum cleaners—an oversight, perhaps?
• A cultural examination that can make even the driest of history buffs get a little misty-eyed.

Condition: Used, which means this book carries the musty aroma of nostalgia and is possibly infused with the faint remnants of tea stains from a debate on whether ‘Oriental’ is still an acceptable term. The cover is not just faded; it tells a story—perhaps of a time when it was adored and thumbed through by rug enthusiasts who would later go on to question their life choices while staring at their Ikea doormats.

As you flip through the pages, you might encounter the occasional dog-eared corner, a smudge here, a slight tear there, but rest assured, these imperfections add character—like the eccentric aunt you only see at family gatherings, full of tales and the odd bit of unsolicited advice.

So, if you fancy yourself a connoisseur of floor textiles— or if you merely enjoyed the last episode of “The Great British Sewing Bee” and want to impress your friends with obscure trivia—this book might just be the perfect addition to your collection of half-read but never-forgotten literature. Or, you can simply place it under your own rug for a decorative touch that says, "I know things, but not enough to actually use this." Available exclusively from Crappy Old Books, where we celebrate the charm of second-hand literature and the stories they carry, whether they intend to or not.

Keep browsing: See more Crafts books Other books by Philip Bamborough