synopsis

Chinese textiles go back thousands of years. The Silk Road was n amed for the extensive trade in these fine materials. Due to China's size and history of successive wealthy dynasties, a vast amount
of textile art is available for study today. Great tombs have yielded beautiful and dateable pieces worn and used by elite members of Chinese society. These and other fragile examples reside in museums and a few private collections.

Other examples of antique Chinese textiles are still found in the marketplace. While it is impossible
to look at these beautiful examples and not admire the skill of the weaver and embroiderer, until now there has been little informaiton about their history or value.

Threads of Gold is a comprehensive guide to collectible Chinese textiles with an extensive number
of examples and with an understandable grading system that relates to what constitutes value. This book is beautifully illustrated with over 500 detailed photos of ceremonial court robes, badges and decorative textiles dating from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) to the Ch'ing Dynasty (1644-1911). It
is designed for historians, Asian studies scholars, textile collectors and admirers, from beginning to advanced, as a real-world representation of available pieces and an in-depth study. It is a must for appraisers and connoiseurs alike.