November 2007    

Russian Textiles: Printed Cloth for the Bazaars of Central Asia Author: Susan Meller Publisher: Abrams $50.00 Cloth (205 p) ISBN: 9780810993815 B&T        MAJORS       YBP Reviewed by Julie Marston, Customer Service Russian Textiles: Printed Cloth for the Bazaars of Central Asia is a beautifully illustrated book highlighting Russian manufactured cotton textiles from the 1860's to the 1960's from the author's own collection. The chapters, organized chronologically, are contributed by the author as well as other textile experts. They discuss the culture and history of the people of Russia and Central Asia. This land reflects the cultures of many different tribes and the fabrics in the book reflect this ethnic melting pot. Textiles, in this area, had a major social and economic importance. These fabrics were used in everyday garments as well as in silk ikat robes that local rulers often gave as gifts. There were also special fabrics for weddings, funerals and other social rituals. The fabric in clothing also denoted one's status in society. The book chronicles the prominent design elements of the cloth, starting with paisley motifs brought over from Kashmir, and moving on through pre-revolutionary florals, Art Nouveau, post revolutionary florals, modern, and outside influences. It shows many examples of each period Russian Textiles shows over 190 patterned example of this cloth mainly in the linings of Russian clothing collected by the author. The full size photos are well laid out and should inspire artists and historians alike. Published by YBP Library Services 999 Maple St., Contoocook, NH 03229 USA v: 800.258.3774   f: 603.746.5628 w: www.ybp.com   e: academia@ybp.com All rights reserved.