Costumer's Library

A Costumer's Library - Survey to Topic Specific Books 

These books cover a variety of topics - survey of costume history, specific eras with extant examples, details on the what the archaeologists found, illuminations/paintings from period artists, and discussion around what was made, how it was made, and what remains today.

Several of these books are in German or French language. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xdhPw15QyP47HmCNMLrOpeM_flV4KKilDh9yWSY-cc8/edit?usp=sharing

A Child's Life in the Middle Ages

Danièle Alexandre-Bidon and Pierre Riché. La vie des enfants au Moyen Âge, Sorbier, 1997.

"La vie des enfants au Moyen Âge" (The Life of Children in the Middle Ages) by Danièle Alexandre-Bidon and Pierre Riché offers a comprehensive exploration of what childhood was like during the medieval period. The book delves into the social, cultural, and religious aspects of children's lives from birth through adolescence in the Middle Ages, focusing on how they were raised, educated, and integrated into society.

The book provides a detailed examination of children's roles within medieval society, from their early years in family life to their experiences in education, work, and play. Using historical records, literature, art, and legal documents, the authors reconstruct what daily life was like for children during the medieval period. The text covers various aspects of children's experiences, such as their birth and infancy, health, education, games, and the expectations placed on them by their families and society.

This hardback book full of beautiful color scenes of daily life is in good->excellent condition We pasted a book plate on the first sheet, but it is otherwise in fine condition. This book is in French. The dimensions are approximately 20x1x25.6 cm 9782732033891.

I'm asking $25.

Viking life in color

Nurmann, Schulze, & Verhulsdonk. The Vikings: Recreated in Colour Photographs, Windrow & Greene, 1997.

"The Vikings: Recreated in Colour Photographs" by Dieter Nurmann, Gert Schulze, and Rainer Vurhulsdonk is a visually rich and historically detailed book that brings Viking life and culture to life through color photography.  The authors use modern-day reenactments and carefully researched reconstructions to present an authentic representation of Viking society, focusing on the daily life, warfare, trade, and exploration of these seafaring people. 

This book has many photographs of Viking reenactors dressed in historically accurate clothing, using period-appropriate tools, weapons, and accessories. Each photograph is accompanied by explanations and extant photos that detail the historical background of the items or scenes depicted. The book covers the Vikings' domestic life, social structure, warfare, exploration, and their far-reaching influence across Europe and beyond. 

This soft cover book is in excellent condition. The Dust cover has a small rip on the back cover. We pasted a book plate on the front cover, but it is otherwise in fine condition. The dimensions are approximately 19.69 x 1.27 x 26.67 cm 25.5 x 4 x 28.7 cm 1859150586.

I'm asking $25.

Fra Angelico

Spike, John T. Fra Angelico. Abbeville Press, 1997.

This book offers an in-depth exploration of the life and works of the early Renaissance painter, Fra Angelico. Renowned for his ethereal use of color and light, Fra Angelico’s frescoes and panel paintings reflect a deep spiritual devotion combined with extraordinary technical skill. This beautifully illustrated book features numerous full-color reproductions of his most celebrated works, including his famous frescoes in the Convent of San Marco in Florence. The large-format images capture the detail and craftsmanship of Fra Angelico’s painting, allowing readers to appreciate the nuances of his religious scenes, figures, and the fabrics that adorn his subjects.

For costume historians and those interested in reproducing Renaissance attire, Fra Angelico is a treasure trove of visual references. His careful attention to the draping of robes, the ornamentation of garments, and the depiction of textures provides invaluable insight into the clothing of the 15th century. This volume is not only a celebration of one of the most spiritually profound artists of the Renaissance but also a practical resource for those looking to understand the sartorial elegance of the period.

This is a large, lavishly illustrated book is in excellent condition. It is a navy blue cloth-wrapped hardback book with a dust jacket in very good condition. We pasted an address label on the first sheet, but it is otherwise in fine condition. The dimensions are approximately 11½"wide x 13¼"tall x 1¼"thick. 9780789203229 / 0789203227.

I'm asking $50.

Dressing in the Middle Ages

Mane, Perrine, and Françoise Piponnier. Se vêtir au Moyen Âge. Adam Biro, 1995. 

This book is an authoritative exploration of medieval clothing and fashion, focusing on how dress evolved from the 10th to the 15th century in Europe. This book delves into the social, economic, and cultural influences that shaped medieval attire, examining how clothing was not only a reflection of one’s status but also a means of expressing identity, regional affiliations, and even moral standing. The authors utilize a wide range of historical sources, including manuscript illuminations, literary texts, and archaeological finds, to offer readers a richly detailed account of what people wore during the Middle Ages.

The book is structured around key aspects of medieval dress, including fabrics, colors, styles, and the societal rules that dictated who could wear what. It offers insights into the craftsmanship involved in textile production and the trade networks that supplied the materials for medieval garments. Lavishly illustrated with reproductions of medieval art and artifacts, Se vêtir au Moyen Âge brings to life the everyday and ceremonial attire of peasants, nobles, and clergy alike, providing a fascinating look at the role of fashion in medieval society.

This work is an invaluable resource for historians, costume designers, and anyone interested in the material culture of the Middle Ages, combining scholarly rigor with accessible prose to make the complex world of medieval fashion understandable and engaging.

This book is written in French. Used - Soft Cover,  Good->Excellent Condition, Back cover has 1 bend. ISBN 2-87660-169-9. 

Asking $55.

Great Altarpieces

Limentani Virdis, Caterina, and Mari Pietrogiovanna. Great Altarpieces: Gothic and Renaissance. NY: The Vendome Press, 1999. 

This is a visual masterpiece, showcasing over 400 full-color illustrations that bring the grandeur and craftsmanship of Gothic and Renaissance polyptychs to life. These multi-paneled altarpieces, created by some of the most skilled artists of the time, were monumental works of art designed to inspire devotion and awe. The book captures the intricate details of the paintings, carvings, and gilding that adorned these sacred objects, highlighting the skill and creativity that went into their creation. From the vibrant colors to the delicate brushwork and sculptural elements, each piece is meticulously documented with many full-page, full-bleed images that allow readers to appreciate the complexity and beauty of the craftsmanship.

In addition to offering stunning visuals, the book provides context on the role these altarpieces played within religious settings, but its true focus is on celebrating the artistic achievement behind them. The lavish photographs allow art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the grandeur of these works, which have often been altered or lost over time. Great Altarpieces is ideal for anyone passionate about art and design, offering a rare opportunity to explore the finest examples of Gothic and Renaissance craftsmanship in one beautifully curated volume.

This is a oversize, heavy green cloth-wrapped hardback book with gilt title on the spine. It comes with a dust jacket in good condition, but has a barely noticeable crease on the front.  This is an amazing book with more than 400 illustrations in full color. There are several amazing flip out huge photographs of the actual altarpieces (one shown below). The size is approximately 11½"wide x 13¼"tall x 1¾"thick. (Did I mention that it's heavy?) ISBN 9780865652248.

I am asking $150.

European Textiles

King, Monique, and Donald King. European Textiles in the Keir Collection: 400 BC - 1800 AD. Jolly & Barber Ltd, 1984. ISBN 9780571133710.

This book is a comprehensive catalog and scholarly exploration of the vast textile holdings of the Keir Collection. Spanning over two millennia, the book documents the rich history of European textiles, featuring garments, fabrics, and tapestries that range from ancient times to the early modern period. The Keir Collection, known for its exceptional range of historical artifacts, offers a unique lens through which the development of textile arts can be studied, from ancient woven fabrics to opulent Renaissance tapestries.

Accompanied by high-quality photographs and detailed descriptions, this volume not only celebrates the artistic beauty of these textiles but also provides in-depth analysis of the materials, techniques, and cultural significance of each piece. With its scholarly commentary and historical insights, the book is an invaluable resource for textile historians, art collectors, and anyone interested in the evolution of European textile art. This work highlights the importance of textiles in reflecting the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Europe from antiquity through the early modern period.

This is a hardback dark-green cloth book with gilt title on spine in mylar-wrapped dust jacket. But for an address label on the first sheet, it's in fine condition. There are no marks or highlighting inside.  It is approximately 11¼"tall x 9"wide x 1⅜"thick. ISBN 9780571133710 / 0571133711.

I am asking $40.

Visual History of Costume

Ribeira, Aileen, and Valerie Cumming. The Visual History of Costume. Costume & Fashion Press, 1997. 

This offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of fashion from ancient times to the 20th century. This richly illustrated volume serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in historical costume, presenting a wide array of garments, accessories, and textiles from various cultures and periods. Drawing on historical sources such as paintings, drawings, and surviving garments, the authors provide a detailed and accurate account of how clothing styles developed, influenced by social, cultural, and economic factors. The visual richness of the book, combined with scholarly insights, makes it a valuable reference for students, designers, and historians alike.

Each section of the book is accompanied by high-quality images that bring to life the different fashions worn in royal courts, among the nobility, and by everyday people throughout history. Whether you are studying specific periods of fashion or looking for inspiration for costume design, The Visual History of Costume provides both the historical context and visual documentation needed to understand the shifting trends in clothing. This indispensable guide makes it a must-have for anyone passionate about fashion history.

This is a paperback book in very good condition with little shelf wear. There is an owner's label on one of the first sheets but is otherwise free of marks and highlighting. There are some wonderful clothing examples in this book. ISBN 9780896762213 / 0896762211.

I am asking $75.

Carolingian Embroidery

Salazar, Kim Brody. The New Carolingian Modelbook: Counted Embroidery Patterns From Before 1600. Ianthe D'Averoigne, Outlaw Press, 1995. 

This is an invaluable resource for enthusiasts of historical needlework, particularly those interested in counted embroidery patterns from the medieval and Renaissance periods. Drawing from designs that predate 1600, the book presents a comprehensive collection of embroidery motifs, offering stitchers an opportunity to recreate historically accurate patterns that adorned textiles in Carolingian, Gothic, and early Renaissance cultures. The motifs reflect a variety of influences, including geometric designs, floral patterns, and representations of animals, all adapted for modern use while staying true to their historical origins.

Ianthe D'Averoigne's contribution to this work provides an added layer of historical context and scholarly insight, making the book both a practical guide for embroiderers and a reference for historians of medieval textile arts. The patterns are presented in a clear, counted format that enables even those with intermediate embroidery skills to recreate the intricate designs. While many of the designs are adapted from extant textiles and manuscripts, the book also includes original interpretations that fit within the aesthetic traditions of the time.

This book is essential for anyone involved in the recreation of historical garments, whether for personal enjoyment, reenactment, or academic study. It offers a window into the decorative arts of the pre-modern world, allowing modern artisans to connect with the craftsmanship of past centuries. With its detailed charts and careful attention to historical accuracy, The New Carolingian Modelbook is a treasure trove for embroidery lovers and history buffs alike.

This is a paperback book in very good condition. There is very little visible shelf wear. Other than an owner's mark on the first sheet, the inside of the book is clean and without highlighting. There are some really beautiful patterns in this book. ISBN 9780964208223 / 0964208229.

I am asking $70.

Inventory of King Henry VIII

Starkey, David, editor. The Inventory of King Henry VIII: Volume 1, The Transcript. Harvey Miller Publishers, 1998.

The Inventory of King Henry VIII: Volume 1, The Transcript is a meticulously transcribed document of King Henry VIII’s possessions, compiled shortly after his death in 1547. Commissioned by his son, Edward VI, the inventory catalogs over 18,000 items, ranging from royal regalia to personal items and military stores, providing invaluable insight into the grandeur of the Tudor court. The inventory is housed in two manuscripts, one held by the Society of Antiquaries of London and the other by the British Library.

This volume includes a comprehensive historical introduction, detailed notes, and an exhaustive index, providing scholars with a critical tool for understanding Tudor material culture. The transcript not only helps trace surviving objects but also aids in attributing other items to Henry VIII. With a glossary of technical terms, it is an indispensable resource for students and historians interested in the Tudor monarchy and the reign of Henry VIII.

My copy is in very good condition, with a mylar-wrapped dust jacket. Other than an address label on one of the front sheets, I see no evidence of use. It is a large heavy book, being approximately 9"wide x 11.25"tall x 2"thick. 539 pages. ISBN: 9781872501895 / 1872501893.

I'm asking $110.

Well Dress'd Peasant

Leed, Drea. The Well Dress'd Peasant: 16th Century Flemish Workingwomen's Dress. Colorado: Costume & Dressmaker Press, 2000.

The Well Dress'd Peasant by Drea Leed is a detailed exploration of the clothing worn by 16th-century Flemish working women, as depicted in the genre paintings of artists like Pieter Aertsen and Joachim Beuckelaer. Drawing from the expertise of notable costume historians such as Janet Arnold, Leed offers patterns and step-by-step guidance for recreating garments like kirtles, petticoat bodies, and partlets. Novice and experienced costumers alike will benefit from the practical instructions and simplified smock construction techniques, making it a valuable resource for historical clothing enthusiasts.

This paperback book had a small printing and was issued without an ISBN. My copy has light shelf wear, but there are no marks inside. I never actually got around to using it to make a dress. Its dimensions are roughly 8½"w x 11"tall. 75 pages. I can likely mail this one first class in an oversize envelope.

I'm asking $110.

Funeral Effigies of Westminster Abbey

Harvey, Anthony, and Richard Mortimer, editors. The Funeral Effigies of Westminster Abbey. Boydell Press, 1994.

The Funeral Effigies of Westminster Abbey offers a detailed exploration of one of the most unique and lesser-known collections housed in Westminster Abbey. Edited by Anthony Harvey and Richard Mortimer, this richly illustrated volume examines 21 funeral effigies ranging from the medieval period to the early 19th century. These effigies, representing monarchs, national heroes, and figures of historical significance, were used as part of elaborate funeral ceremonies. The collection includes effigies of Edward III, Henry VII, Charles II, and Lord Nelson, among others. For the first time, both wooden medieval effigies and later wax figures with contemporary clothing are examined together, making this work a significant contribution to the study of effigies and funerary art.

The book also catalogues important artifacts associated with the effigies, including original garments such as Charles II's Garter robes and Nelson’s hat, as well as rare Georgian jewelry and early textiles. The volume provides in-depth information on the history, significance, and restoration of these effigies, some of which were damaged during World War II. This makes it a valuable resource for art historians, scholars of royal ceremonial, and anyone interested in the cultural history of Westminster Abbey.

This book is in Good->Excellent condition. The cover has some shelf wear. ISBN: 9780851158792 / 085115879X. 

Asking $85.

Tailor's Pattern Book

Alcega, Juan de. Tailor's Pattern Book 1589. Carlton, Bedford UK: Ruth Bean, 1999.

Juan de Alcega's Tailor's Pattern Book 1589 is a vital primary source for anyone studying Renaissance fashion. This facsimile edition provides some of the only surviving tailoring patterns from the late 16th century, offering unique insight into the craftsmanship behind garments of the Spanish nobility. The book contains over 130 detailed patterns for a wide variety of garments, making it an invaluable resource for historians and costume designers alike. For anyone interested in Renaissance costume design or the history of tailoring, this is a must-have resource, offering one of the few direct windows into the techniques and styles of a bygone era.

The book includes 135 detailed patterns that were used by tailors to create a wide variety of garments for both men and women. These range from doublets and cloaks to elaborate gowns and farthingales. What makes this work so valuable is its practical approach—tailors of the 16th century would have used these exact patterns to cut and assemble fabric, ensuring the precise fit and luxurious styles that characterized the nobility’s attire.

Each pattern is accompanied by yardage requirements, essential for recreating these garments today. However, the original work lacks illustrations, so modern users must rely on their interpretation skills and historical knowledge when following the layouts and instructions. The facsimile also includes both the original Spanish text and its English translation, providing accessibility for a broader audience.

This is a paperback edition with wear along the book edges, and a prior owner's address label on the front sheet. Otherwise in near fine condition. No marks or highlighting. It is approximately 11"tall x 8¼"wide x ¾"thick. ISBN: 9780903585316. I am asking $330.

Text from the back cover:

Merovingian Treasures

Fleury, Michel, and Albert France-Lanord. Les Trésors Mérovingiens de la Basilique de Saint-Denis. Gérard Klopp, 1998.

     

Edition #535

Les Trésors Mérovingiens de la Basilique de Saint-Denis by Michel Fleury and Albert France-Lanord is an in-depth exploration of the archaeological discoveries from the Merovingian necropolis beneath the Basilica of Saint-Denis, a site regarded as one of the most significant in European archaeology. Published in 1998, this comprehensive work spans 572 pages and contains over 400 illustrations, offering a detailed account of the tombs of high-ranking individuals, particularly women of the Merovingian royal court. Among the most notable finds is the tomb of Queen Arégonde, wife of Clotaire I, which remarkably preserved both precious jewelry and embroidered silk garments. The preservation of these artefacts is attributed to the protection offered by the tombs from rainwater, providing a unique glimpse into Merovingian burial customs and material culture.

The volume is richly illustrated and meticulously documents the excavation process, along with the artefacts' historical and cultural significance. It includes everything from sarcophagi to silk textiles and jewelry, offering an essential reference for scholars of Merovingian art, history, and archaeology. This publication stands as a foundational text in the study of early medieval European archaeology, providing detailed analysis that contextualizes the discoveries and highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of the period.

This large-format book (9.65” x 13.39”), weighing 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs), is in excellent->mint condition and comes with a slipcover box. Ideal for Early Period reenactors and scholars, the book is filled with remarkable drawings, photos, and recreations from the 90 archaeological sites beneath St. Denis. Written in French, it covers burial details, including artifact positioning, weaving techniques, and X-ray analyses of jewelry and adornments. A highlight of the book is the inclusion of Queen Arégonde’s artifacts, along with thorough analyses of fibers, leathers, metals, and dyes from the burial sites. This volume is an indispensable resource for understanding the early Northern European peoples and their cultural heritage.

Asking $270. (I will split shipping costs 50% given the weight of this book.)