World Textiles: A Concise History

Description

Mary Schoeser's groundbreaking book presents a chronological survey of textiles around the world from prehistory to the present day, exploring how they are made, what they are made from, how they function in society, and the ways in which they are used and given meaning. From the very earliest needles of twenty-five thousand years ago, to the 'techno textiles' of today, textiles have been fundamental to human existence - enjoyed, prized and valued by every culture. Silks from China, cottons from India, tapestries from Flanders, dyes from South America, the ravishing appeal of different weaves, colours and patterns was long the motivation for trade, the exchange of ideas, and sometimes even war. World Textiles is the perfect introduction to this vast and fascinating subject, invaluable for makers, designers, textile and fashion professionals, collectors and students alike.

Mary Schoeser is a leading authority in the field of textiles and is Honorary President of the UK Textile Society. As an adviser on historic textiles and wallpaper, she has worked with organizations such as English Heritage, the National Trust, Liberty in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Schoeser has organized many textile exhibitions, including a collaboration with the Design Museum at the University of California, Davis, to highlight elements of their collection researched in connection with this book. Her previous publications include International Textiles and World Textiles.

'It is difficult to think of a valid reason why anyone with an interest in textiles should not obtain a copy' - Textiles 'Well written and comprehensive, the wealth of beautiful illustrations in World Textiles makes it hard to put down' - The Lecturer