Description
Book SynopsisProvides information on the origins and early development of textiles in Europe and the Near East. Using linguistic techniques, along with methods from palaeobiology and other fields, this book shows that spinning and pattern weaving began far earlier than has been supposed. It tells how it was more culturally significant to prehistoric cultures.
Trade ReviewWinner of the 1993 James Henry Breasted Prize, American Historical Association Winner of the 1992 Davenport Publication Award "This monumental study embraces linguistic and archaeological investigations, practical knowledge of weaving, palaeobiology, and other arcane sciences to trace the development of cloth."--Washington Post Book World "Packed full of useful and intriguing information ... also remarkably well written. This conjunction of virtues advances archaeological understanding of textiles and their social and cultural implications a giant step."--Trudy S. Kawami, Science "An exhilarating book. As the first comprehensive account of one of humanity's oldest industries, it will be a basic tool for archaeologists."--Helen Hughes Brock, Antiquity
