Richard Belkin is a Consultant for Bonhams Skinner Oriental Rugs & Carpets department. Well known in the national and international rug collecting world as an avid collector of antique Eastern Caucasian weavings, his collecting journey began 30 years ago when his wife bought him several rug books and auction catalogs for his birthday.

As a member of the New England Rug Society Steering Committee, Richard has had the opportunity to meet many of the country's top rug collectors and dealers through their involvement in the society's monthly lectures and meetings. He has taken advantage of the internet's global reach to converse with other rug enthusiasts and dealers who share his passion for exceptional tribal and Persian village weavings.

A graduate of Boston University with a degree in English literature, Richard can opine on the qualities of Shakespearian language and the fine indigo dyes used in antique Caucasian Kuba weavings. Outside of the rug world, Richard serves as the president of a real estate management company.