Silk in Africa - Softcover

Spring, Chris; Hudson, Julie

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0295982357 ISBN 13: 9780295982359

Publisher: Univ of Washington Pr, 2002

Synopsis

The rich and diverse range of silk textiles from Africa is an unexpected revelation. This book focuses on over thirty pieces from the British Museum's spectacular collection, bringing together for the first time the highly distinctive traditions of silk weaving and embroidery from throughout the African continent. These range from textiles commissioned by royalty and high-ranking officials, such as the striking cloths of the Asante (Ghana) or gowns from Ethiopia encrusted with gold, to less prestigious but no less glorious pieces such as a multicoloured Merina burial shroud from Madagascar. As a pattern sourcebook the reader will find inspiration for striking colour and tonal combinations as well as myriad ideas for using stripes, geometrics and stylized figurative motifs.
In their introduction the authors bring the textiles to life by examining who made them, how ideas travelled across the continent and the significance of pattern and symbolism. In addition, all the principal techniques are explained while brief commentaries highlight the design features. Whether you are interested in graphic design or technical detail, this inspiring book will be the first to open your eyes to a previously unexplored aspect of Africa.

About this title

About the Author

Chris Spring and Julie Hudson have both traveled in Africa and are the joint authors of North African Textiles. They are curators in the Department of Ethnography at the British Museum.

Reviews

There is no better authority on world textiles than the British Museum. The transformation of that expertise--and the accompanying visuals--can be found in the latest entry in the Fabric Folios series. The formatting is this: first, an introduction to the history, tradition, textiles, and decorative motifs in Africa; and then100 or so actual all-in-color samples. Desert countries emphasize the luxuriousness of silk in much more complicated hues and decorations than those south of the U.S. border. All illustrations are well labeled with dimensions and descriptions; a glossary and bibliography wrap up these very accessible introductions to ethnic fabrics. Selected reading and museum accession numbers are appended. Barbara Jacobs
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Edition details

• Publisher: Univ of Washington Pr
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0295982357
• ISBN 13: 9780295982359
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 88