World Textiles: A Concise History

World of Art

by Mary Schoeser

The history of textiles, more than that of any other artifact, is the history of human ingenuity. From the earliest needles of 25,000 years ago to techno textiles used in Space Shuttle parachutes today, textiles have been fundamental to human existence and achievements, and have informed developments in other areas from agriculture to metallurgy. Textiles are global commodities, common to every culture and for a long time the motivation for trade, the exchange of ideas, and sometimes even conflict. Silks from China, carpets from Persia, ikats from Indonesia, cottons from India, fine linens from Flanders--each of these has helped to shape the modern world. This groundbreaking book surveys, from prehistory to the early twenty-first century, how textiles are made, what they are made from, how they function in society, the ways in which they are valued and given meaning, and the messages they contain. The author shows the intricate relationships between different cultures' textile traditions and demonstrates the significance of the materials we all take for granted in our everyday lives. 204 illustrations, 100 in color

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Reference, Art, Fashion, Art History

224 pages, Paperback

First published June 9, 2003

Reviews

[Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book - lots of really fascinating detail. There are areas not covered - very little on knitting or knotting, for example, but it is a "concise" history and this is a huge subject. It was written at the start of the century; I suspect now a little more attention might be paid to the producers of the fibres and at least some mention of the massive exploitation textiles have meant for so many people throughout history and still today. But this is still a book I would very much recommend as a study of the origins and development of textiles globally.

[OvercommuniKate · Rating 2 out of 5]

A little out of date and I would have preferred more infographics and pictures going into further textile types.

[Mrs Reddy Katzy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Im sure this is a good book BUT it's a little too academic for me and as i read for pleasure not need im not going to finish it ........

[Mzfitz]

tclib 677.009