Of all the crafts of Oman, the country's silverwork tells us perhaps the most about the people of this land. Silver was a natural currency for this nation of ocean-going merchants. By studying it now, we can unravel vital clues about marriage rites and personal adornment, cosmetics and weaponry. In this age of mass-production, the individual workmanship and beauty of the silversmith's craft is especially precious. Author Ruth Hawley has known the country for over a quarter of a century. She is an acknowledged expert in its silverwork. This book will interest the collector of silver as much as it will all those who know and love Oman.