The buyer's guide to rugs from China, India, Pakistan, and Romania. Written as a companion volume to Janice Summers Herbert's highly acclaimed Oriental this brand-new reference book, with over 100 full color photographs, contains all the data and advice you need to select the rug that's just for your home and budget, to evaluate its quality, and to keep it in top condition. Ms. Herbert takes you on a step-by-step tour of these increasingly popular, less expensive rugs that make up over 75% of all Oriental carpets imported by the United States. Discussing everything from preparation of the wool to methods of looming, basic knotting techniques, and the symbolism of designs, she compares the merits of various rugs, explaining exactly how to assess their value. This informative text is accompanied by detailed maps of each rug-weaving region and a fascinating history of the art right up to the present day. Ms. Herbert's glossary of rug terminology - from Aubusson to weft-will help you understand and speak the language of the Oriental-rug expert. With this book, you will learn to tell at a glance whether a rug is made by hand or by machine, how old it is, and whether natural or chemical dyes were used. You 'II discover how to avoid the pitfalls of shopping overseas for "the bargain of a lifetime" and what to watch out for in the heat of an auction. Whether you are an armchair shopper, a prospective collector, an interior decorator, a rug dealer, or are simply interested in Oriental art, you'll find this book an enjoyable, invaluable reference and an investment that could save you a fortune.