opening of the text draws attention to the allure and intricacies surrounding Oriental rugs, depicting them as multifaceted works of art that require a discerning eye to truly appreciate. Ellwanger discusses the common misconceptions about rugs, contrasting the superficial perception of them as mere household items with a deeper understanding of their complexity and history. He emphasizes the mystery that envelops these pieces, including their uncertain origins and the challenges in navigating the market, where genuine antiques are rare and often misrepresented. This sets the stage for a comprehensive guide that aims to enlighten readers about the beauty, value, and authentication of Oriental rugs. (This is an automatically generated summary.)