About Us

A visit to the World of Islam exhibition in London’s South Bank in 1978 opened the world of Antique Oriental Carpets to Edward Stott. Buying his first rugs a year later on a visit to Konya in Turkey he began a life long study of this fascinating subject. He has visited many of Europe’s private and public Textile and Oriental rug collections over the years and is always intrigued that unknown and interesting pieces can still be seen and examined.

In 1995, after a number of years as a rug dealer and restorer, Edward founded Oxianna Books in order to provide a single source for both new and out of print books on Oriental Rugs and Carpets. Since then Oxianna’s stock has expanded to include books on tapestries and embroideries as well as travel and topography titles. Many are rare or out of print, but there are also modern titles both scholarly and those more accessible. Currently he is one of the Officers of the London based Oriental Rug and Textile Society and is Editor of the Newsletter.

Ed knows his books very well, has read virtually every title in his stock and is friends with many of the authors of the books he stocks. He will happily advise on titles for specific research projects. If you would like to visit us to browse the library or look at the weavings, please contact us to arrange an appointment.

Over the past decade Ed has been formally studying architectural history and has developed a keen interest in the buildings of Robert Hooke, Nicolas Hawksmoor and Christopher Wren; all noted for their beautiful churches in and near the City of London. Ed has also continued to seek out and visit many Country Houses and Museums that have important collections of carpets, rugs and textiles. Having also successfully completed a Tour Guide course, Ed now offers escorted visits to these treasures that are mostly off the London tourist trail. If you are passing through London why not add an extra half or full day to see some real delights.