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.

About the Author
As an archivist, curator and historian, Mary Schoeser MA FRSA has had access to numerous public and private collections across the UK, Europe and America. Among her many publications are Textiles: The art of mankind (Thames & Hudson: 2012 and 2013), available in Chinese, English, French and German. Honorary President of the Textile Society (UK), she is also affiliated with the Victoria and Albert Museum as an Honorary Senior Research Fellow, and is Patron of the Bernat Klein Foundation and the School of Textiles, Coggeshall.

Reviews
'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



Book Information
ISBN 9780500203699
Author Mary Schoeser
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Thames & Hudson Ltd
Publisher Thames & Hudson Ltd