The Crafts Of The Modern World

Pictorial compendium of over 400 objects of contemporary handicrafts from countries throughout the world.

Features over 180 highlights from the Renwick Gallery's remarkable collection of craft objects from the 19th century to the present.

Published to coincide with a major exhibition, an assessment of the international influence of the arts and crafts movement considers its reflection of modern issues and technological capabilities, surveying 260 objects from Europe and America in such areas as furniture, ceramics, and textiles.

Insiders call it the Craft. Discover the fascinating true story of one of the most influential and misunderstood secret brotherhoods in modern society. Founded in London in 1717 as a way of binding men in fellowship, Freemasonry proved so addictive that within two decades it had spread across the globe. Masonic influence became pervasive. Under George Washington, the Craft became a creed for the new American nation. Masonic networks held the British empire together. Under Napoleon, the Craft became a tool of authoritarianism and then a cover for revolutionary conspiracy. Both the Mormon Church and the Sicilian mafia owe their origins to Freemasonry. Yet the Masons were as feared as they were influential. In the eyes of the Catholic Church, Freemasonry has always been a den of devil-worshippers. For Hitler, Mussolini and Franco, the Lodges spread the diseases of pacifism, socialism and Jewish influence, so had to be crushed. Freemasonry's story yokes together Winston Churchill and Walt Disney; Wolfgang Mozart and Shaquille O'Neal; Benjamin Franklin and Buzz Aldrin; Rudyard Kipling and 'Buffalo Bill' Cody; Duke Ellington and the Duke of Wellington. John Dickie's The Craft is an enthralling exploration of a the world's most famous and misunderstood secret brotherhood, a movement that not only helped to forge modern society, but has substantial contemporary influence, with 400,000 members in Britain, over a million in the USA, and around six million across the world.

A comprehensive survey of crafts worldwide. It explains and illustrates the techniques used in a particular craft, from backstrap weaving and papercutting to metal casting and wood carving, as well as their history. Featuring over 500 illustrations, it is suitable for those concerned with art, craft and decorative objects.

Dive into the transformative era of the Industrial Revolution with “The Invention of the Modern World”. This captivating book delves deep into the profound societal changes ignited by scientific advances and industrialization. Explore the cultural shifts, environmental impact, and technological innovations that reshaped the fabric of society forever. From the rise of factories to the emergence of new philosophical movements, each chapter unveils fascinating facts and insights into this pivotal period of history. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about the forces that shaped our modern world, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of one of humanity's most defining epochs.