Publisher's Synopsis
"The Encyclopedia of Furnishing Textiles" is an accessible and comprehensive reference work describing the furnishing textiles, soft furnishings and floor coverings used in Western domestic interiors over the period 1200-1950. Included with the descriptions and histories are details of the manufacture, distribution and consumption of furnishing goods. "The Encyclopedia" incorporates details of most historic furnishing practices (which have often been dealt with individually), and benefits from extensive consultation of primary or out-of-print sources to show how the products were viewed historically. The book includes nearly 1200 entries covering generic topics such as: woven textiles, printed textiles, embroidered textiles, tapestry, painted cloths, yarns, dyes, carpets, rugs, non-woven fabrics, oil-cloths, wall materials, upholstery materials, loose covers, trimmings (passementeries), beds, cushions, and many more. Entries vary according to their role and importance but usually include a description, historical explanations of use, technical details, and primary and secondary source material. A companion volume to the author's "Encyclopedia of Furniture Materials, Trades and Techniques", this book will be an essential resource for students, historians, curators, textile designers, interior designers, conservators and collectors.
