Tribal Rugs: Treasures of the Black Tent" is an exploration of one of the most ancient crafts of the world. Beginning with the discovery of the oldest complete rug which has been dated to the fifth century bc the reader is led through the weaving history of the nomadic peoples of Iran Afghanistan Turkey the Caucasus & Central Asia. Each chapter introduces a different group of tribes & illustrates the rugs carpets kilims & utilitarian bags attributed to their weavers. Tribal weaving together with the use of natural vegetable dyes began its swift decline around the turn of the twentieth century under the twin assaults of civilisation & commercialism. This book is both a celebration of the woven legacy left by the tribes & a tribute to the skill & artistry of the women who created these wonderful works of tribal art. It is hoped that it will provide an introduction to the novice & excite the more knowledgeable to further study. The book is illustrated in colour throughout with examples of the finest work of each tribe the majority of the illustrations being previously unpublished. This is a completely new edition with updated text & many new photographs."