2012/02/21
91 notes

mediumaevum:

In the Middle Ages, a “hot” new thread technology 

was sweeping Europe. This new technique 

made it easier than ever to produce colorful and 

luxurious textiles. It was eagerly borrowed by 

Europeans from the Islamic countries around the 

Mediterranean — along with a lot of other things 

from the same splendid cultural center, such as 

alchemy, blackwork embroidery, Greek literature, 

and the concept of zero. This hot new technology 

was knitting. It was easy to learn, and fast. Unlike 

weaving, it didn’t require cumbersome or expensive 

equipment. With a few pieces of wire and some 

colored thread, knitting could create anything 

from elaborate brocade-like designs to nicely fitted 

stockings to warm woolen caps.

image: Detail from ‘Visit of the Angel’, from the right wing of the Buxtehude Altar. 1400 - 1410

(via feitoamao)

Tags: Art Architecture Knitting Germany Image