In the world of antique rugs and textile art, the events of the past week in San Francisco may have heralded the dawn of a new reality, and not an unpleasant or perilous one at all. With the slow registration of dealers in attendance at ARTS, there were fears for the future of the show itself, all of which had proved to be totally unfounded by the conclusion of the event late Sunday afternoon. Apparently, with fewer dealers around, it might actually have provided the buying public with a more focused perspective on the offerings.
According to ALL dealers, the show went well, as sales were made. Those stalwart souls who ventured to SF for the events left satisfied. So did their clients, who were able to see and connect with the art on offer: many walked away with fresh acquisitions to add to their collections. It is difficult to imagine a better scenario given the geopolitical/economic realities of the 21st century.
Although the de Young had nothing special planned for this week, Tom Cole hosted an exhibition of tribal weavings, ‘Light on Persia’, in San Rafael, which was praised by all who attended, Jim Dixon was open for visitors in his carpet cathedral in Occidental, and Mohammad Zavvar marked his entry into the world of formal auctions with an offering at his gallery in Oakland. But no one was complaining. The weather was great (as usual in mid-October in the Bay Area) and the mood decidedly satisfied.
