the appreciation of Oriental rugs as significant works of art. The opening of the text establishes a context for the increased interest in Oriental rugs since the early 1900s, highlighting their artistic value and the high prices some have commanded at auctions. Hawley discusses the essential elements of rug production, including weaving techniques and dyes, while also delving into the historical significance of the carpets. He emphasizes the differences in artistic expression between Eastern and Western cultures and articulates the need for a cultivated appreciation of the subtleties inherent in these woven masterpieces. Through this opening, readers are invited to understand the depth and complexity of Oriental rugs, setting the stage for further exploration in subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)