Book: Caucasian Prayer Rugs by Ralph Kaffel 1998

Description: From dust jacket:"Caucasian prayer rugs have bee prized by collectors since their appearance on the Western market in the latter part of the nineteenth century. While several books have been devoted to the village rugs from this ethnically diverse region, this is the first to focus exclusively on prayer rugs, which as special-purpose weavings with important social and religious significance, were created by skilled weavers from the finest materials. Caucasian Prayer Rugs illustrates, in magnificent colour plates, 97 examples drawn from private collections worldwide, many of which have been specifically photographed for this book. The book begins with an examination of the historical background of the Caucasus region, situated between the Black and Caspian Seas, where a long history of wars, expulsions, invasions and migrations have resulted in great ethnic and linguistic diversity. The origins of prayer rugs in particular, are discussed in the light of recent research. Ralph Kaffel then examines each rug-producing region in turn, giving details of design and structural characteristics, with line drawings of typical designs. His methodology draws extensively on a pictorial 'database' of stylistic similarities compiled by him over almost two decades of meticulous research. The plate section follows, illustrating the finest examples from each area. Each plate is accompanied by a detailed caption and is supported by extensive reference material, including a technical analysis where available and lists of analagous examples. The appendix includes an essay by Jim Dixon, who addresses the fundamental issue of the meaning of the designs to those who made and used these carpets; and a summary of the author's database findings. The book concludes with a glossary of terms, bibliography and an index. Caucasian Prayer Rugs combines the author's extensive knowledge with a true passion for the subject. It is both a beautifully illustrated work of reference for the scholar and an illuminating introduction for the first-time collector." Bound in the publisher's original black cloth with the title stamped in gilt on the spine. With 170 illustrations, 160 in color, and 1 color map. Includes bibliography and index. Hardback in like new condition other than a small tear in the front dust jacket. Shipping to 48 contiguous US states only.

Price: 49 USD

Location: Cumming, Iowa

End Time: 2025-02-01T20:37:52.000Z

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