Toiles de Jouy

Originally referring only to the famed fabrics of Jouyen-Josas, 'toiles de Jouy' has today become the catch-all term for the delightful printed cottons preferred by the aristocratic elite in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century France, made famous by the palaces of Marie-Antoinette and Empress Josephine. The fabrics were influenced by Indian chintzes. Designs ranged from florals and rural scenes to classical designs from antiquity and fables. They also featured exotic designs from Asia and the Middle East as well as commemorative designs for significant historical events. Sarah Grant introduces the design, dyeing, and printing processes that created these textiles, and their role in interior decoration and clothing, both then and now. Sumptuous new photography of the V+A's extensive toiles collection illustrates the cottons' diversity: floral, literary, antique, allegorical, bucolic and exotic, among others. This book offers inspiration to everyone with an interest in textiles, interiors and French style.