Textiles of the Arts and Crafts Movement

In a delightful and thorough investigation, London's Victoria and Albert Museum staffer Parry recalls the artistic genesis and glory of the Arts and Crafts movement's fabricmakers and their work. The author outlines the history of late 19th century England's textile industry, and shares her understanding of the atmosphere that gave rise to the Arts and Crafts Society 100 years ago. Like the patterns illustrated here, Parry spares no detail in tracing the artists whose work is associated with the movement. While, happily, many lesser-known designers are covered, lengthy analysis is given to C.F.A. Voysey, Lindsay Butterfield and George Haite, whose styles characterize the period. Research dazzles as the Society's exhibitions are recapped and their artistic importance discussed. In a nice touch, we see period photographs of the products in Victorian homes and learn how the public received them. Throughout, Parry displays consummate critical skills while leavening her discourse with enthusiastic appreciation of the fabrics and prints that decorated the Victorian world and now adorn these pages in 50 color plates. (September)