Pull of the Thread: Textile Travels of a Generation

Sheila Fruman's book "Textiles of the Silk Road" showcases the stories of nine intrepid adventurers who have collected and sold antique textiles from Central and South Asia, capturing the post-World War II era's free spirit and economic prosperity. With over 200 color illustrations, the book explores how these indigenous designs and motifs have influenced modern fashion and interior design.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: Hali Publications Ltd

Sheila Fruman's captivating journey in 1969 from Turkey to India, fueled by her fascination with textiles and handmade carpets, unveils the captivating tales of nine intrepid adventurers who ventured into the streets and bazaars of Central and South Asia. These adventurers embarked on a mission to discover, research, collect, and sell antique Kashmir shawls, intricately embroidered Uzbek textiles, Anatolian kilims, Turkmen carpets, and a plethora of other textile treasures to eager Westerners. These stories, set against the backdrop of the post-World War II era, encapsulate a spirit of freedom and openness that briefly flourished alongside economic prosperity and open borders.

The book, adorned with over 200 vibrant color illustrations, showcases how the indigenous designs and motifs popularized by these textile travelers have transcended boundaries and found their way into various realms of fashion, interior design, and mass-marketed products. It reveals how these intricate pieces of the past have become cherished elements in high-end couture, luxurious interior spaces, and everyday bedding, tableware, and clothing.

The dealers and collectors who have dedicated their lives to pursuing these precious textiles possess remarkable stories to share, and their collections stand as testament to the finest textiles of their kind in the world. When combined, their narratives offer an enlightening perspective on our connection to the past and the profound role that textiles play in connecting the world. Sheila Fruman's book serves as a testament to the enduring allure of these textile treasures and their ability to inspire and enrich our lives.

Weight: 1528g
Dimension: 248 x 292 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781898113874