Persian Rugs and Carpets

Born in Iran to a family with a long history of dealing in Persian carpets, perhaps it was inevitable that Essie Sakhai should become a respected expert on Oriental and Persian carpets, gaining much of his great knowledge from his father Benayahoo Sakhai. Essie lives in North London, though he spends most of his time at Essie Carpets on the corner of Albemarle Street and Piccadilly in London's Mayfair, carrying on the family tradition started in the 18th century. Essie is a true enthusiast and hopes through his extensive lectures, interviews and writing (his previous books include The Story of Carpets, which has been translated into many languages, The Buyers' Guide, and Persian Rugs and Carpets: The Fabric of Life) to share his knowledge and passion for carpets with a wider audience. Jonathan Wadsworth is a renowned specialist in European, Persian and oriental rugs and carpets and has dedicated over 40 years to the study and promotion of carpets and woven art. Formerly a director of Sotheby’s Europe, Jonathan was head of their carpet department, and a flamboyant auctioneer based in London. Jonathan has been on the vetting committee of the prestigious Grosvenor House Antiques fair, London and acted as specialist consultant to auctioneers at home and abroad including Bowrings in New Delhi, India. He has lectured extensively on commercial and academic topics associated with Persian rugs and carpets, with lecture tours including Plum Blossoms Forum for the arts in Singapore, Moore College of art in Philadelphia, USA, and The British Council in both New Delhi and Kolkatta, India. He was contributing editor to the acclaimed Miller’s art publications and antique encyclopaedia and has appeared as a specialist and judge on the BBC’s The Great Antiques Hunt.