Art of Embroidery: History of Style and Technique [Hardcover]

Lanto Synge (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 30, 2005

This glorious book is filled to the brim with a wide ranging history of textiles and 350 superb illustrations drawn from many countries and sources vestments and costume, samplers and pictures, great beds and furniture. The story of embroidery and needlework is discussed within the fascinating context of the history of fabrics, of decorative costume, of interior decoration, of church and state ceremonial, of girl's education, of furniture and pastimes. Silk, cotton, linen, and the significance of colours and dyes are also considered. Two interesting chapters reveal the world-wide fascination in an influence of Chinese embroidery and Indian textiles. With a broad account of the artistic achievements of every facet of decorative needlework the book is rich with the art-historical background encompassing the most magnificent of all embroidery, the mediaeval English vestments so coveted by Popes and Bishops across Europe, to the domestic treasures created in more recent centuries. Baroque, Rococo, neo-classical and other period characteristics are each discussed with reference to works created by children, young girls, and ladies who made furniture coverings destined for posterity. The nineteenth century saw extremes of art and fashion ranging from Berlin woolwork to Art Needlework and the eclectic inspiration represented by William Morris, all leading to simpler modernist styles which evolved over the twentieth century. The author sets in political and social context the whole panoply of textiles distinguishing between the magnificent products of professional workshops and the uniquely individual and especially charming amateur embroideries that survive today amongst the most beautiful treasures of the decorative arts. Mr Synge's text is authoritative but examines with infectious enthusiasm this field which has never been sufficiently understood but now interests more people than ever before. It will appeal to all who admire beautiful things, fine workmanship, good design and lovely fabrics.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Lanto Synge grew up in Ireland and was educated there and at Trinity College, Cambridge. He joined Mallett's in 1969 and is now Chief Executive of the company. He has been a member of the Council of the Royal School of Needlework since 1984 and has written several books on furniture and needlework history

Product Details

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Antique Collectors Club Dist (May 30, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 185149359X
• ISBN-13: 978-1851493593
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 9 x 1.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #913,008 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspirational, March 22, 2002

By 

Anne Gomes "anne-g" (Cary, NC) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

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This review is from: Art of Embroidery: History of Style and Technique (Hardcover)

For those who enjoy fine needlework and aspire to expertise, this book is inspirational. Excellent photos of embroidered treasures from throughout the world and throughout history with well-researched descriptions. Does not contain instruction, you will have to take a class for that.
Beautiful enough for the coffee table in the living room.