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The Golden Thread
How Fabric Changed History
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Check link for latest rating. ( 3,531 ratings, 544 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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The Golden Thread
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
A new history of ingenuity from the author of The Secret Lives of Colour.
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Description
In The Golden Thread, Kassia St Clair illuminates the captivating history of fabric, weaving it into the broader tapestry of human civilisation. From the discovery of ancient threads in a Georgian cave that date back 30,000 years, to the intricate linen wrappings found on Tutankhamun's mummy, this book unravels the threads that have shaped our world. Through tales of the Silk Roads that connected continents, the woollen sails that enabled Viking exploration of America long before Columbus, and the lace ruffs that incited Puritan outrage, St Clair paints a vivid picture of human innovation and cultural exchange.
As readers delve into this rich history, they are taken on a journey from the luxurious silk favoured by Chinese empresses to the durable fabrics worn by Richard the Lionheart. The narrative extends to the vital role textiles played in enabling enslaved people to escape, the summit of Everest, and even the moon, where astronauts relied on their specially designed suits. St Clairβs 'quietly feminist' perspective adds depth to the exploration, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of women in the development and crafting of these essential materials.
The history of fabric is not merely a chronological account but a story of resilience, ingenuity, and adaptation. Fabrics have allowed humanity to survive in the harshest climates, thrive in diverse cultures, and achieve monumental feats. The book also examines how materials such as Indian calico and chintz catalysed the Industrial Revolution, transforming economies and societies forever.
St Clair's storytelling is enriched with unexpected adventures and historical anecdotes. Whether it's climbing the heights of Everest or walking on the moon with astronauts, the book traces the threads that connect us to these historic moments. By touching on modern innovations in textiles, such as in sportswear, the narrative brings the story into the present day, showing how fabric continues to evolve and affect our lives.
"Fascinating... The history of the world through the eye of a needle... I recommend this book to anyone," notes The Spectator.
"A charming, absorbing history that takes us on a journey from the silk roads to sportswear, from ruffs to spacesuits... I devoured this quietly feminist book," says The Sunday Times.
"Joyful and beautiful," praises Nature, highlighting the visual and intellectual delight of St Clair's work.
"Will make you rethink your relationship with fabric," declares Elle Decoration, emphasising the profound impact of this book on its readers.
Engrossing and meticulously researched, The Golden Thread is an extraordinary exploration of how textiles have shaped and continue to shape our world, threading through the very fabric of human history and innovation.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Golden Thread by Kassia St Clair is highly praised for being a refreshing and insightful exploration of the history of fabric. Critics highlight the book's engaging storytelling, showcasing how textiles have been central to myths, trade, and technological advancements. Described as both entertaining and enlightening, it offers a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical significance of textiles, presented through well-crafted narratives.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781473659056
Publisher: John Murray Press
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 03 October 2019
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: John Murray Publishers Ltd
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 28.0mm
Width: 126.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 257g
Pages: 368
About the Author
Kassia St Clair studied the history of women's dress and the masquerade during the eighteenth century at Bristol and Oxford. She has since written about design and culture for the Economist, House & Garden, TLS, Quartz and New Statesman, and has had a column about colour in Elle Decoration since 2013. Her first book The Secret Lives of Colour was a top-ten bestseller, a Radio 4 Book of the Week and has been translated into over a dozen languages; her second, The Golden Thread, was a Sunday Times Book of the Year and was shortlisted for the Somerset Maugham Award. She lives in London.
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