About

I discovered my passion for handwoven antique rugs in my 17th year, on a casual visit to a rug store on Portland Road, Notting Hill Gate, London. I was visiting with my best friend from school, Ivan, who’s father, the legendary dealer David Black, was the owner of the business. I still remember clearly to this day the powerful effect of the vibrant colours combined with the exotic smell of the Far East. I was almost overwhelmed by what I later learned was a village Bidjar rug, hanging on the wall and I stood in front of it, bathing in its radiance.It was without doubt the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen and I was almost breathless staring at it. The red ground pulsated as it drew me in and when I finally dragged my eyes away to look at the ticket, I received my second major upset: I was not going to be going home with it despite my longing to. Ever since then, I have been travelling the world looking for exceptional examples. It is my hobby, my passion and my pleasure!

Now in my 47th year, I have lived and worked in different countries, the USA, France, Italy, Austria and participated in many international specialist shows. I have helped build private collections, put on exhibitions and helped interior decorators track down those hard to find soft coloured, all over designed large carpets for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms.

I have now permanently resettled in my country of origin, based in Park Royal, West London and exhibit three times a year at the Battersea Decorative Show, which I like to think of as my bricks and mortar showroom. Just a stones throw over the bridge from Chelsea, it is a popular event, partly due to the informal atmosphere and partly due to the great range of attractive decorative and collectable items at approachable prices.

Please enjoy my site, and do get in touch if you don’t see what you are looking for. I have a rapidly evolving inventory and am tirelessly searching for great rugs every single day. 

James Cohen July 2018