Welcome to Brian MacDonald's online catalogue
Brian MacDonald has been dealing in antique tribal rugs and decorative carpets since 1979. He set up Samarkand Galleries in 1989 dealing nationally and internationally from the Cotswolds and Edinburgh. He sold his Cotswold premises a few years ago and wishes to point out that the business now operating from these premises using a similar name to his former business name, has no connection with Brian MacDonald. In June 2006, Brian closed down his Edinburgh gallery, returning to work from his Cotswold home as a dealer, consultant and lecturer. He continues to offer a select and exquisite inventory of antique rugs and dowry bags - mainly from the nomadic tribes and villages of Turkey, Persia, Afghanistan and Central Asia as well as large decorative carpets.
Brian lived and worked in Iran from 1972 to 1977, spending the best part of a year of this time with two tribal groups, the Afshar of Kerman and the Qashqa'i of Fars. He is one of few world dealers to have spent time "in the field". He has travelled extensively in Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey, and has returned to Iran in recent years, travelling and collecting amongst the Bakhtiyari, Qashqa'i and Shahsavan tribes.
Brian has been a lecturer on Eastern carpets for NADFAS (National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies) since 1986. In 1990, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society for his work amongst the Persian tribes. His book "Tribal Rugs: Treasures of the Black Tent" was published in 1997 and acclaimed as "one of the finest books written on tribal rugs" (Ghereh International Carpet & Textile Review). As at the present time, "Tribal Rugs" has gone out of print but a re-print is scheduled for 2008. He is currently working on two further books on tribal weaving.
Brian actively travels throughout the UK and sources rugs and carpets for clients throughout the world. He is continually 'finding' good antique stock and what is illustrated on his website is by no means, his entire inventory. Therefore, if you are looking for something specific, please don't hesitate to e-mail your requirements and he will get straight back to you with photos or ideas.
Brian hopes you will enjoy the wonderful selection of antique tribal rugs, carpets, dowry bags and flatweaves on view and for sale on his website.
April 2008.
