This is a compact, well illustrated, well researched book on tapestries through history to the modern ages. The introduction covers definitions, materials and process, looms, dyeing, and other basics. The following chapters follow tapestry development roughly chronologically from ancient and medieval tapestries, through the socioeconomic background of patrons and merchants, trade fairs and commission of bespoke pieces of work. The renaissance and the decline of historical tapestry weaving leads on into the modern resurgence of tapestry work by modern artists. The book is lavishly illustrated throughout with woodcuts, photographs of historical tapestry, workshop illustrations, and photographs of more modern work through to gallery representation and working process photos. The book also includes a glossary of terms, links to further reading and information as well as links to exhibits and museum collections which can be seen by the public, and a cross referenced index.
This would make a superlative library book, fibrearts guild library selection, gift for a lover of fibre-arts, or reference for many fibre-crafters including knitters, weavers, embroiderers, etc.
Four stars. Very well done.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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