Illustrated with vibrantly colourful and textured fabrics in 400 full-colour photographs, here is a exploration of the history, technology and lore of this most versatile design element - and a comprehensive look at the creators and designers who use fabrics to stunning effect in textiles and interiors throughout the world. With chapters devoted to individual fabrics - wool, linen, cotton, silk; decorative uses such as upholstery, bed hangings and passementerie; and contemporary clothing designers and decorators, this book covers its subject from ancient times to the present day. Seven years in the making, this volume is the product of the collaboration between a well-known European stylist, an internationally acclaimed photographer and a respected art historian. Caroline Lebeau is a premier stylist for Maison et Jardin. Jacques Dirand took the photographs for French Style, also published by Thames and Hudson. Patricia Corbett, formerly the European editor of Connoisseur, writes a monthly column for the Italian edition of The New York Times Book Review, and other leading European and American publications.