African Textiles

by John Gillow

Generously sized and beautifully illustrated, African Textiles is an authoritative survey of textile arts - unique and collectible rugs, tapestries, garments, and much more - from across the continent. Author John Gillow traveled extensively throughout Africa, uncovering the dazzling range of traditional hand-crafted textiles from each region. Five sections detail the textile history and traditions within Africa's major geographical areas, examining materials, dyes, decorations, patterns, and techniques. From the stripweave cloth of the Ashanti in the West to Ethiopian embroidery in the East, from Berber rugs in the North to the Madagascan silk of the South - and everything in between - the breadth of coverage in African Textiles is peerless. Robustly illustrated with over 500 color photographs and drawings, this is an exciting new sourcebook for those interested in textile design and the traditional arts of Africa.

Genres: Art, Fashion, Nonfiction, Africa, Art Design, Crafts, Reference

224 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Sotiris Makrygiannis · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time I took a look into African textiles and still thinking what a great business opportunity! The patterns are very good, love those of blue colour but also the pygmies patterns are great. Funnily, the south east Nigerian patterns have the indo-greek svastika and other symbols that you can find in Greece. Proto Cypriot patterns also found in that region. Algerian knitting similar to what w have in Cyprus. Anyway all of the Africa techniques and patterns (585 in total) are good for a new fashion busineS, especially if hand made as they do it originally.

[Mills College Library]

746.096 G483 2016

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book shows pictures of the most incredible fabrics, usually woven by men. I have been on the lookout for African patterns, and with reading this book, I got what I wanted. I find many of the pictures inspirational for quilts in a more realistic way than the square repetitive blocks many quilts at quilt shows make work boring. Granted: weaving is not the same as sewing; it is a different medium altogether. The results are often similar for practical use, and for visual pleasure.

I recommend this book to all people interested in looking at African work.

[Amy]

Well-organized book and great photos of the fabric.

[Hawa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is informative and goes in-depth about the different types of prints in Africa. The pictures are beautiful and very detailed.