Curtains and Drapes: History, Design and Inspiration

From Front Jacket: "Curtains and draperies are now an essential element of interior design, with possibilities ranging from the simple yet stylish to the grandly elegant. This definitive, lavishly illustrated volume charts the history and development of curtains and draperies from medieval times to the modern day, making it an essential source of reference and inspiration for researching and recreating period style window coverings or executing a modern interpretation of a classic design. Every important period and style is presented here: Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Palladian, Rococo, Empire, Regency, Neoclassicism, Victorian, Edwardian, Arts and Crafts, Art Deco, English Country, and more, covering the whole spectrum of British, American and Continental styles. For each major style, the key features are explained and the underlying influences analyzed, presenting in one comprehensive volume a complete look at the work of the world's leading architects and designers as well as a vivid picture of the lifestyles of each period. Presented in irresistible and absorbing detail are wonderful embroidered hangings of Elizabethian beds, Louis XIV's magnificent Baroque furnishings for Versailles, the 'flying' canopy of the 'lit a la duchesse' (angel bed), the first paired curtains, Chippendale's ingenious Rococo valances and swags, Napoleon's spectacular tented rooms, and many other examples of window coverings throughout the centuries. Following this survey, Jenny Gibbs tackles the complex question of which treatments are best for each of the major types of window and gives valuable advice on how to scale down period treatments for modern homes. The book is rounded out by a complete glossary of terms, directory of fabrics and index."