Traditional Textiles of Central Asia [Paperback]

Janet Harvey (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 5, 2009

“A valuable source of information and an inspiration for anyone interested in the decorative power of textiles.”—Antiques and the Arts Weekly

No region has a textile tradition more vivid and romantic than that of Central Asia. This book provides an illustrated survey of these textiles, displaying in more than 200 color plates the opulent velvets, exquisite embroideries, magnificent felts, and fine cotton weaves produced throughout the area.

Janet Harvey describes the decorative motifs, materials, dyes, and looms; the types of objects made and the diverse regional and tribal variations; clothes and costumes; and lavish embroideries and embellishments. A valuable source of information for designers and students, collectors and travelers, the book includes a glossary, a bibliography, and a list of collections. 212 color, 52 b&w illustrations

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Both of these works exemplify the craftsmanship of highly skilled weavers in Central Asia and provide insight into the lives and culture of various ethnic groups. The "Introduction and Survey" section of Turkoman, an English translation of Jourdan's renowned German work, gives a brief yet detailed overview of the background and characteristics of nomadic Turkoman tribal weaving, including the techniques, influences, and symbolic and ritualistic meaning of various designs. There is also a brief section on collecting Turkoman rugs and pricing trends. The major portion of this work is a catalog of different regional types of pile weaving. Each rug, illustrated by color photograph in full view, is given a brief description and a literature citation stemming from the bibliography. While geared to specialists in the field, this work could help lay readers develop an appreciation of the Turkoman tradition of weaving. Collector and dealer Harvey focuses on a broader aspect of nomadic weaving, that of fabrics and applied decorative works. The four chapters of this colorful volume highlight not only the historical or traditional materials and designs in weavings but also more contemporary aspects of clothing. The opening chapter describes the history of the region and that of the various trade routes between Europe and China. The second chapter focuses on various types of materials and traditional dye sources and dyeing. The third chapter highlights the diversity of weaving, from covers and hangings to knitted and crocheted works. The last chapter is devoted to the various ways traditional fabrics can be enhanced through embroidery, block-printing, and fabric painting. Both works should be popular among textile enthusiasts and should be purchased for collections specializing in decorative arts.?Stephen Allan Patrick, East Tennessee State Univ. Lib., Johnson City
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

Janet Harvey has traveled extensively in Central Asia, studying firsthand the making and uses of the region's traditional textiles. She lives in Scotland.

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson (October 5, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 050027875X
• ISBN-13: 978-0500278758
• Product Dimensions: 11.6 x 8.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #188,277 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #50 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Antiques & Collectibles > Textiles & Costume

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful photographs of a lost art, December 19, 1999

By 

djonn "djonn" (Toronto, On) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Traditional Textiles of Central Asia (Paperback)

There are so few accesible books written on this topic so coming across this was a real find. The pictures were gorgeous. The author has done a lot of research into the methods of weaving and dyeing that are now lost to the ages so if ever it would be feasible for someone to try to authentically manufacture these wonderous fabrics they'd need only pick up a copy of this book. However, I have only 2 problems with it. First, it seems to be written for those who already have knowledge of the technical aspects of weaving and not for the layperson. I would have liked to have read much more about the history and culture which the book only touched on very briefly. Second, a lot of focus (both in picture & text) was placed on the tribal and not enough on the urban. I would have liked to have seen more of a balance. All in all though a beautiful book- - lovingly and diligently researched and prepared. The author should be applauded for her work in this dying and forgotten art.