Presentation of the book at the Nomadenschaetze gallery (Arlette Bollag) in Zürich.
‘I have always been interested in arts since my high school times, my eyes were educated by the rich holdings of Istanbul mosques and museums on one side, and the discoveries of the western paintings during many trips to Europe on the other side. Leaving Turkey in 1980, the rugs continued for me to be a direct connection to the spirit of my native country. With the “discovery” of the kilims, and other flatweaves as well as many historical rugs on the market I started to collect pile rugs, çuvals and kilims with the knowledgeable help of many people in the bazaars of Istanbul. Over the years it has been my pleasure to acquire pieces coming directly from Anatolia, mostly in “as found state”. I have rarely separated from a piece I have acquired. I am currently the happy guardian of above 100 Anatolian kilims, pile rugs and other weavings that stretch over a time span from the 15th to 19th centuries.’ said Ali Riza Tuna to Jozan Magazine.
Ali Riza Tuna has set a new standard for Kilim studies. The integration of scientific data with cultural context is brilliant.
An indispensable guide for collectors and scholars alike. The clarity of the photos and the accuracy of the carbon tests make this a definitive work.