World Textiles (World of Art)

The history of textiles, more than that of any other artifact, is a history of human ingenuity. From the very earliest needles of 25,000 years ago to the smart textiles of today, textiles have been fundamental to human existence, and enjoyed, prized and valued by every culture. Silks from China, cottons from India, tapestries from Flanders, dyes from South America – the appeal of different weaves, colours and patterns was long a motivation for trade, the exchange of ideas and sometimes even war.