In the past ten years, antique textiles, especially those from France, have become very popular for interior decoration. In her easy-to-read style, the author gives a basic history of French textiles from the Middle Ages to Art Déco. 416 beautiful color photographs demonstrate traditional and contemporary uses for tapestries, cottons, linens, laces, embroidery, needlepoint, and trims. Suggestions are given for their use in contemporary interior and home décor. Answers to frequently asked questions are very helpful to the novice and connoisseur alike. The clearly stated text explains how to recognize these fabrics in the marketplace and what to look for when purchasing them. A range of values for the examples shown reflects the current antiques market. This is a book for the general public as well as for designers. Readers will gain the confidence to add a creative touch or note of elegance to their decorations and designs with antique textiles.