Medieval Costume and Fashion

Books on fashion history are among Dover`s most popular titles, appealing to costume enthusiasts and serving as practical references for specialists in the field. This latest addition to that category presents a superb panorama of clothing styles from the medieval period in Europe. Brief introductory comments on a period`s cultural and historical activities introduce each chapter, which then focuses on clothing worn during the reign of a particular monarch -- from William I and the Norman Conquest of 1066 to the battle of Bosworth Field (1485) and the reigns of Richard III and Louis XI. The meticulously researched text is enhanced with nearly 700 finely detailed illustrations of figures garbed in all manner of apparel -- from the fur-trimmed garments favored by courtiers and members of the nobility to apparel with simpler lines worn by merchants, huntsmen, entertainers, and other commoners. Hairstyles, foot-covering, jewelry, headgear, weapons and table settings, among other items, are also described. Fascinating in its detail and particularly clearly and well arranged, (this book is) a helpful and welcome means of refreshing one`s memory with long-forgotten dates. -- Saturday Review. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.