Traditional Crafts of Saudi Arabia: Weaving, Jewelry, Costume, Leatherwork, Basketry, Woodwork, Pottery, Metalwork

I found this book helpful as an expat living in Saudi Arabia. The emphasis was heavily focused on textiles, which was very informative. The other crafts were also interesting and I would have enjoyed more information regarding those items. Overall, a very good reference book and learning tool on this little known country.

This is a lovely volume of native crafts that would be well appreciated by the individual interested in the arts and crafts of a nomadic people. Some of the textiles displayed are worthy of a museum as are some of the pieces of equipment used to make them. There are old photos even showing how some of the cultural equipment was actually used. Much of the material presented was collected in the suqs (market places) in Taif, Riyadh, and Jiddah, places to which I had been myself and where I had also collected some craft objects which I display in my own home. As growing numbers of the world's community begin to acquire and prefer the more "perfect," cheaper, mass produced commodoties of our age of technology, the knowledge of these crafts will undoubtedly dwindle. Hopefully those with an appreciation of the knowledge and artistic ability of the old crafsman will preserve with loving care some of the few pieces that remain. I know some large silver bedouin beads I purchased in the women's suq in Riyadh have a pride of place in my home; I use them as Christmas tree ornaments every year and treasure them!