Indiennes - Material For A Thousand Stories

Indiennes are printed or painted cotton textiles that made their way from India to Europe in the 16th century. French and Swiss manufacturers were soon imitating these fabrics, and in the 17th and 18th centuries they became hugely popular throughout Europe, with a lasting impact on society and fashion. The role of the many Swiss who helped to shape this highly profitable industry is described here in detail for the first time. Published in conjunction with an exhibition at the Landesmuseum Zurich, the volume also investigates the interwoven history of India and Switzerland through the centuries, right up to Walter Bosshard's photographs of Ghandi's struggle for independence.