George Bradley’s Carpet Diem: Tales from the World of Oriental Rugs is a personal and often humorous exploration of the world of oriental rugs, seen through the eyes of a poet turned collector. This is not a traditional rug book—it’s a memoir filled with vivid stories, surprising encounters, and a deepening love for the art of antique carpets.
The journey begins when Bradley takes a closer look at an old carpet he had walked over for years. What follows is a passionate dive into the world of rugs—buying, selling, researching, and meeting the many colorful characters who populate the trade. Based in New England, Bradley had no shortage of auctions, dealers, and hidden treasures to feed his growing obsession.
Bradley describes his own learning curve in navigating confusing classifications, developing an eye for quality, and becoming part of a community of pickers, restorers, and high-end collectors. With his poetic voice, he reflects on the joy of seeing, touching, and acquiring old rugs—something collectors feel deeply but often struggle to express.
Carpet Diem blends memoir, travel writing, and cultural history. The chapters often center around the pursuit of specific carpets and feature solid, accessible information woven into the narrative. Along the way, readers are introduced to both the beauty of the objects and the eccentric world surrounding them.
This charming, unconventional book is a must-read for anyone curious about the emotional pull of oriental rugs. It’s a love letter to textile art, filled with insight, wit, and heartfelt enthusiasm.
The book Carpet Diem: Tales from the World of Oriental Rugs includes eleven color photos. It is published by HarperCollins Publishers 27 May 2025.