Textiles of Southeast Asia Tradition, Trade, and Transformation

by Maxwell, Robyn

• ISBN13: 9780195531862
• ISBN10: 0195531868
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1990-12-06
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

Created from an extensive range of locally produced and imported raw materials, and designed using an astonishing number of techniques--including different types of applique, decorative weaving, tie-dying, batik, and embroidery--Southeast Asian textiles are used to fashion an extraordinary variety of objects, ranging from everyday clothing to sacred and ceremonial costumes. This authoritative study focuses on the interplay between indigenous Southeast Asian traditions and the external cultural forces that have been a crucial part of the historical development and changing nature of the region's textile traditions. Maxwell considers the various ways Southeast Asian textile artisans reacted to the new ideas and raw materials from outside regions. The social, cultural, and religious dimensions of this art, the factors that condition how people create textiles, the way these are used, and the meaning of motifs and symbol are explored in detail. Including examples of textiles--some in categories that have never before been published--this reference work is a valuable contribution to the field of ethnographic textiles.

Author Biography

Dr Mattiebelle Gittinger is Research Associate at The Textile Museum, Washington, DC. A founding member and former president of the Textile Society of America, Dr Gittinger is also the author of numerous books and articles on the textiles of Southeast Asia

Table of Contents

Foreword	p. 3
Acknowledgements	p. 5
An Introduction to Southeast Asian Textile History	p. 9
The Foundations	p. 33
Indian Impressions	p. 149
Chinese Themes	p. 239
Islamic Conversions	p. 299
European Incursions	p. 353
The Changing Role of Textiles in Southeast Asia: Conclusions	p. 395
Notes	p. 408
Glossary of Technical Terms	p. 416
Bibliography	p. 419
Index	p. 426
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