Fragment of an Altar Frontal, English & Italian, Museum no. T.194-1911
COLLECTIONS
Textiles
The national collection of Textiles covers a period of more
than 2000 years. It has a broad geographic range with a
particular emphasis on Europe. Most techniques are
represented, including woven, printed and embroidered
textiles, lace, tapestries and carpets. These are classified
by technique, countries of origin and dates of production.
Particularly rich areas of the collections are the early silks
from the Near East, lace, European tapestries and English
medieval church embroidery.
Highlight
Past Exhibition: Quilts: 1700 - 2010
With examples dating from 1700 to the present day this was a unique opportunity to view the V&A's unseen quilt collection as well as key national loans. Earliest examples included a sumptuous silk and velvet bedcover, with an oral narrative that links it to King Charles II's visit to an Exeter manor house in the late 17th century. Recent examples included works by leading artists such as Grayson Perry and Tracey Emin and commissions for the exhibition by a number of contemporary artists including Sue Stockwell and Caren Garfen.
Highlight
Sampler - Culture Clash
Sampler - Culture Clash is a collaborative project initiated by David Littler, director of the London Printworks Trust, in association with the V&A. It brings the two cultures of embroidery and DJ-ing together to see what might happen when the two cultures clash. The word sampler is common to both cultures, but has different definitions and understanding depending on which culture you occupy.
Highlight
World Beach Project
Devised by artist Sue Lawty in association with the V&A, the World Beach Project is a global art project open to anybody, anywhere, of any age. Building on the experience many of us have of making patterns on beaches and shorelines, this project combines the simplicity of making patterns with stones with the complexities of shape, size, colour, tone, composition, similarity and difference.
Highlight
Discover... Oriental Carpets
Become an expert in the construction and quality of oriental carpets with this fascinating collection of short videos. Presented by Jennifer Wearden, the Textile Curator from the Department of Furniture, Textiles and Fashion.