BOOK Decorative Textiles from Arab & Islamic Cultures | Ottoman embroidery costume | Turkey Syria outlets Iran India paisley shawl abba robe tiraz
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Book Title: Decorative Textiles from Arab & Islamic Cultures - Selections from the Al Lulwa Collection
Author: Jennifer Wearden
Language: English
Published: London, UK - 2020
Condition: Very Good Condition
Format & Size: Softcover - 9.5" x 11.75"; 200 pages
Description: One of the most distinctive features of Islamic design is the evolution of an increasingly abstract and repetitive repertoire of motifs, which are shared among all media – metalwork, woodwork, ceramics, tilework and textiles. In textiles the main themes are based on angular and geometric shapes – vertical and horizontal striped bands; hexagons and octagons, which can be linked and infinitely extended; stylized and rhythmic scrolls of foliage and flowers; and Arabic calligraphy, of which the letters can be formed into continuous borders, panels and medallions. These motifs can be used separately or combined into complex patterns, of which the repetitive and two-dimensional features are ideal for textile production, especially where varying lengths are required – for hangings, curtains, robes and shawls. Valued for their role in the subtleties of court ceremonial and fashion, these textiles were also much admired beyond the Islamic lands. The exceptional collection published here ranges widely in region, material and technique. There are textiles and garments from North Africa, Syria, Arabia, Iran, Turkey and the Indian subcontinent linked by a shared vocabulary of ornament – evidence of the international nature of Islamic design. Materials represented are silk – the most prestigious of fibers, requiring highly respected weavers – wool, cotton and linen. Decoration is based on variations of weave and color and embellishment through embroidery, printing and appliqué and illustrates the work of both professional and domestic workers. The strengths of the collection are concentrated in the textile production of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, which, thanks to the basically conservative nature of textile technique and design, preserve and continue the traditions established in the medieval Islamic world. They are important in an assessment of Islamic textiles both for their quality and as illustrations of survival and adaptation in a outlets major industry. Their heritage reaches back well over a thousand years, even though their very high perishability means that for the earlier part of the tradition our knowledge is reliant very largely on written sources. These, however, attest to the superb quality and quantity of textiles at the courts of the period.
A note regarding condition: All of the costumes and textiles that I sell are vintage and have typically seen decades of use resulting in expected wear and tear that add to the history and authenticity of each piece. In case of above-average wear, I will mention any significant damages and heavy signs of use. Depending on the age, materials, and condition, I often hand-wash more durable, colorfast cotton and linen textiles, but embellished garments, heavier wool pieces or items made from silk or fine fabrics are sold in the original, unwashed condition. Small holes or stains, missing sequins/beads, worn trim, and other marks related to standard wear are common and do not detract from the value of most pieces. Please keep in mind that a vintage textile or garment in very good condition might still show signs of use, storage and age.
Not sure about the condition? Need more photos? Sure! Etsy allows up to 10 photos online, but I often have more images available so please send an e-mail request for more.
I am located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (USA) and local shoppers are invited to view or try on items in person before buying. Many other garments are available so please don't hesitate to email your specific requests. For consulting services in ethnographic textile care, collection management, storage, exhibition, and preservation, search the web for ELLIS ISLAND VINTAGE.
Anything else? Please ask. I stand behind every item I sell and want you to be happy with your purchase. Thank you for visiting my shop!