The International Hajji Baba Society (IHBS) will host a webinar with writer, translator, and poet George Bradley on Sunday 3 August 2025, at 1 PM EST / 7 PM CEST. The event marks the release of Bradley’s new book Carpet Diem: Tales from the World of Oriental Rugs.
Carpet Diem is a candid, humorous, and at times unsettling account of Bradley’s immersion into the world of antique oriental carpets. A self-described possessor of the “collector gene,” Bradley recounts his early fascination with old rugs while living in New England. His journey led him through auctions, dealers, and trade encounters—full of learning, missteps, and discovery.
The book blends personal narrative with practical insights into carpet classification, identification, and the art of collecting. As his experience deepened, Bradley found a sense of belonging among scholars and advanced collectors. Many chapters focus on specific carpets and feature vivid descriptions of characters and experiences from the trade. Bradley’s poetic background informs his lyrical reflections on the tactile and visual allure of rugs—something many collectors intuitively feel but rarely express.
George Bradley is an award-winning poet, with titles including Terms to be Met, A Few of Her Secrets, and A Stroll in the Rain. He resides in Chester, Connecticut, and currently serves as Vice President of the Hajji Baba Club.
Part of the presentation will include a discussion with Austin Doyle, followed by a Q&A session.
Participation is free, but Zoom registration is required: Register here.