"Published to accompany the exhibition Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, 1 October 2016 - 5 February 2017." -- Title page verso. Includes bibliographical references (pages 279-298) and index.
Contents:
Introduction / Glyn Davies and M. A. Michael -- The making of medieval embroidery / Lisa Monnas -- Embroidered textiles in the service of the church / Nigel Morgan -- Embroiderers and the embroidery trade / Glyn Davies -- Opus anglicanum and its medieval patrons / Julian Gardner -- The artistic context of opus anglicanum / M. A. Michael -- Ecclesiastical embroidery in England from 1350 to the Reformation / Kate Heard -- England and Central Europe: parallel developments and exchange after 1350 / Evelin Wetter -- Afterword / Clare Browne -- Catalogue / edited by Clare Browne and Michaela Zöschg.
Summary:
"In Medieval Europe, embroidered textiles were indispensable symbols of wealth and power. Owing to their quality, complexity, and magnificence, English embroideries enjoyed international demand and can be traced in Continental sources as opus anglicanum (English work). This sumptuously illustrated book draws on new research and detailed photography to offer an introduction to their design, production, and use. Essays by leading experts explore the embroideries' artistic and social context, while catalogue entries examine individual masterpieces. Medieval embroiderers lived in a tightly knit community in London, and many were women who can be identified by name today. Comparisons between their work and contemporary painting challenge modern assumptions about the hierarchy of artistic media. Contributors consider an outstanding range of surviving examples, highlighting their exquisite craftsmanship and exploring the world in which they were created." -- Publisher's description.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.