Biography

Robert Fritz (Bob) began collecting antique furniture and decorative arts at age 17 while in college.  His interest in oriental carpets began when living in Afghanistan with the Peace Corps in 1974 and 1975.  Since then he has also traveled extensively to rug production centers in India, Pakistan, Turkey, Romania, and Nepal.  Over the years, his search for unique antique carpets and textiles has led him to major markets around the world networking with dealers who specialize in only the best and most desirable examples.  He has worked with hundreds of oriental carpet manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, restoration specialists, and auctioneers in over 50 countries.

Bob is widely recognized as an international authority on both antique oriental rugs, as well as contemporary handmade carpet production.  He has been a certified rug appraiser for over 30 years and also has been appointed as a court certified expert in oriental carpet identification and valuation.  Previously, he has served as an advisor to The Official Identification and Price Guide to Antiques and Collectibles.  He is a current member of the Oriental Rug Retailers of America and the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C.  Bob has been a regular participant in both the American and International Conferences on oriental carpets.  He has hosted numerous lectures and seminars on oriental and handmade carpets and is a past president of the Triangle Rug Society.

Bob Fritz has been buying and selling oriental and decorative handmade carpets in central North Carolina and the United States for over 35 years.  As a lifelong resident of North Carolina, he is a graduate of the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill with B.A., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees.  Bob brings a unique background and years of experience blending regional styles and tastes in design with the intriguing and complex world of oriental rug suppliers and wholesalers.

With a personal collection of over 500 antique and unique modern carpets, trappings, and textiles, as well as over 400 books on oriental carpets,  Bob Fritz always has something to willingly share with clients to educate them about handmade rugs and guide them in their best choices to purchase the right carpet(s) for their individual needs.  In addition to his extensive library, Bob also maintains current subscriptions to major journals, publications, and auction catalogs in the field to keep informed of current new trends and changes in the marketplace.

Bob established Robert Fritz Oriental Rugs, Inc to further pursue his love of handmade carpets and share his extensive knowledge and network of contacts with his clients giving them straightforward, honest, and unbiased assistance.  Over 40 years, he has developed and maintained personal and business relationships with more than 200 manufacturers, importers, and wholesalers.  Using the inventory of this comprehensive group of suppliers means that customers will be able to purchase from the greatest selection imaginable and, of course, always at the best value because it is based on the importers wholesale price.