The story of Irish linen is a story of the Irish people. Many thousands of men and women made Irish linen a global product and an international brand. It is also a story of innovation and opportunity.
Kathleen Curtis Wilson is the author of Uplifting the South—Mary Mildred Sullivan’s Legacy for Appalachia and Textile Art from Southern Appalachia: the quiet work of women. She guest curated a multivenue international exhibition by the same name. A renowned authority on Appalachian crafts, Wilson was craft section editor for the Encyclopedia of Appalachia. She lives in Alameda, California.
“A lively social history replete with fine photographs, this book
will be of interest to many readers far beyond the pool of Irish
textile fanciers.”
*Library Journal*
“Rather than simply summarizing the history of the craft and
industry, Wilson makes a strong and eloquent case for the close
connection between Irish emigration and Irish linen…. Beautifully
compiled with nearly 200 stunning color photographs of threaded
looms, flax stalks and gorgeous patterns, Irish People, Irish Linen
presents a little-known segment of history well worth acquainting
oneself with.”
*Irish America*
“Irish People, Irish Linen is a magnificent history of the Irish
people and their association with linen, a tie that dates back to
the eighth century. As 10 million Irish moved from their homeland
during the past four centuries, they carried their love for Irish
linen with them. Kathleen Curtis Wilson eloquently describes this
saga in her beautifully illustrated book on linen, the queen of
fabrics.”
“Irish People, Irish Linen is a stunningly beautiful coffee table
book…. Kathleen Curtis Wilson is to be congratulated on the
brilliant organization of her material and the superb manner in
which it is displayed.”
*NUACHT*
“(The) use of primary sources enhances several…chapters and offers
a welcome, personal view of Ireland and linen production.”
*Winterthur Portfolio*
“This is a handsomely produced book with an abundance of fine
illustrations to complement the words.”
*Irish Arts Review*
“A grade-A recommendation.”
*The Midwest Book Review*
“A never-forgotten piece of Irish history.”
“The exceptional images in this book state the case for using photo
documentation as an integral aspect of textile and costume
preservation.”
“Kathleen Wilson is a deeply observant historian whose examination
of the Irish textile industry connects the fine details to stunning
effect. With supreme intelligence and wit, she tells the riveting
story of Irish linen, the elegant craft practiced by a proud people
for centuries. This is art history at its artistic best.”
“An extraordinary book, well researched, beautifully written,
stunningly illustrated.”
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