The Art of Needle-work, from the Earliest Ages, 3rd ed (ePub)

Sutherland Menzies, an author with a distinctly Victorian fascination for the history and practices of domestic arts, made his literary contributions primarily in the mid-19th century. His active period, spanning from 1840 to 1883, was a time of burgeoning interest in the histories of everyday life and the elevation of such topics to the level of serious scholarly inquiry. Menzies' most significant work, 'The Art of Needle-work, from the Earliest Ages, 3rd ed,' is a testament to his dedication to compiling a comprehensive history of needlework and its social implications. In this volume, he delves into the craft's evolution, examining its roots in antiquity and its development through various epochs to his contemporary era. The book offers more than just a technical overview of stitching and patterns; it also reflects on needlework as a cultural artifact that reveals much about the gender dynamics and socio-economic conditions of its time. Menzies' literary style combines a scholarly approach with an accessible narrative, making his studies notable for both their academic rigor and their readability. Sutherland Menzies' work remains a valuable source for historians of craft and gender studies, providing insight into the symbolic and practical roles that needlework has played throughout history.