Unique in its extensive coverage and systematic research, this book fills a gap in an important sector of the decorative arts that has been little studied to date.
[Fabrics, embroidery and lace in Italy. 1450-1915] The book concerns the most highly prized furnishing fabrics produced by Italian factories – including embroidery and lace – as well as vestments. It is organized chronologically in four chapters from the mid-fifteenth century to the early twentieth century, within which the pieces are classified according to geographical area.
There are colour illustrations of all the fabrics mentioned, as well as many enlargements of details that permit the reader to observe the fine points of the workmanship, of the fabrics themselves that are sometimes very valuable, and of the decorative motifs spanning nearly 600 years of changes in fashion. There are also a broad range of comparisons that provide a complete panorama of the Italian textile industry.