African Textiles: Colour and Creativity Across a Continent

Synopsis
Encompassing the enormous range of traditional, hand-crafted textiles from every region of Africa, this illustrated volume explores the materials, dyes, decorations and techniques of the people who create them. Five sections cover the major geographical areas and examine the materials, dyes, decorations and techniques that characterize them. John Gillow has conducted first-hand research across the continent, recording everything from the simplest items designed for everyday use to sumptuous garments required for major life events, such as births and funerals, marriages and coming-of-age ceremonies.

  Product Description

This is an authoritative survey of textile arts—unique and collectible rugs, tapestries, garments, and more—from all parts of Africa. Five sections detail the textile history and traditions of west, north, east, central, and southern Africa, examining materials, dyes, decorations, patterns, and techniques.
572 color, 12 b&w illustrations

    About the Author

John Gillow researches and collects traditional textiles from India and Southeast Asia, and lectures and exhibits his collections in Europe. He lives in England.


Product Details:
Paperback: 240 pages

• Publisher: Thames & Hudson (August 4, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0500288003
• ISBN-13: 978-0500288009
• Product Dimensions: 12.1 x 9.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.3 pounds

Review:

This book is a wonderful source of material for anyone doing historical research on African and subgroup textiles. It has sections from Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Eastern African, etc. It goes in a good depth on the process and cultural influence of each textile and their signifigance. The illustrations are also an amazing quality with good size picture. As a Theatre Studies major, I had to research material for Nigerian costuming and this book was a nice resource to get a feel of the fabric in this region. Although this book doesn't go too much in depth about the attire Africans wore, it does go about telling what fabrics are used. This is definitely a must buy.

Review by Customer