From Library Journal
Following up on the original 1953 University of Wisconsin Press edition and the 1972 Dover Publications reissue, this updated volume includes new information on north Norway and on the Sami (the people formerly known as Lapps). As in previous editions, chapters detail the Norwegian folk arts of carving, rosemaling, metalwork, weaving, and embroidery, offering historical origins and discussing regional variations. Unfortunately, while the bibliography has been extended to cover the new chapter, it has not otherwise been updated since the first edition, nor does the index reflect the information in the new chapter. Even more disappointing, with the exception of a 16-page color insert, all of the illustrations are black and white. Still, this book complements Norwegian Folk Art: The Migration of a Tradition (LJ 5/1/96), which discusses emigration and settlement patterns along with the tradition and revival of the decorative arts in Norway. For large public and academic libraries.
-Judith Yankeilun Lind, Roseland Free P.L., NJ.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
-Judith Yankeilun Lind, Roseland Free P.L., NJ.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From the Author
It's ba-a-ck! After an absence of over five years, The Folk Arts of Norway is available in a new expanded edition, the third. In this one I have added a chapter on the life and crafts of north Norway, specifically the counties of North Trondelag, Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark. It is an area that has received too little attention, even in Norway. The Sami (or Lapps) and their crafts are an important part of the new chapter, of special interest now that we find there are many people of Sami descent in the U. S. and Canada.
Since it was first published by the University of Wisconsin Press in 1953, followed by a paperback version by Dover Press in 1972, it has become the most recognized source of information on rural Norwegian handcrafts, including rosemaling, carving, metalwork, weaving, embroidery, and costumes. This latest edition adds bone and horn decoration, fur and skin work, pottery, and stamping.
For anyone with an interest in Norway's fascinating past, its rural life, and its rich craft traditions, it is pleasure reading. But it is also a useful research tool, with an extensive bibliography and index. There is also a foldout map of Norway!
