Tapestry

In a stunning showcase, Phillips ( The Country House Book ) traces the use of tapestries in various times and cultures--ancient Egyptian, medieval European, contemporary, Persian, Turkish, Algerian, Navajo, etc.--as wall-hangings, floor coverings, spiritual objects and clothing. Augmented by 200 color and 60 black-and-white plates, her engaging text tracks down the origins of ancient designs, unravels changing weaving techniques across the ages and conveys a sense of how tapestries fit into the everyday lives of those who displayed or used them. Contemporary examples, many with the depth and complexity of paintings, range from British weaver Marta Rogoyska's boldly colorful, geometric Hot Bird Jungle to French artist Jean Lurcat's spectacular Apocalypse , along with hangings by David Hockney and Frank Stella. A resource guide contains advice on buying and caring for tapestries and a listing of tapestry collections. (Aug.)