The Stocking Book

Introduction by Victor Arwas

The Stocking Book explores the astonishing variety of stockings from the eighteenth century to the present.

215 x 120 mm

192 pages

Hardback

ISBN: 978-1-906506-08-7

£12.99

Subjects: Art & Design, Fashion

When a woman takes all her clothes off, she can be depicted as a pure, Classical nude. If, however, she keeps her stockings on, she suddenly becomes naked, an erotic creation capable of arousing the viewer’s libido. This curious paradox has been observed and used by artists since the Middle Ages. Stockings range from extremely elaborate confections: multicoloured, embroidered, applied with sequins or precious stones, painted, striped or otherwise made into objects to be coveted, enabling the wearer to be desired. The Stocking Book explores the astonishing variety of stockings from the eighteenth century to the present, the way great painters depicted them, the way illustrators and cartoonists made use of them, the way advertisements presented them, and the way they have developed, from practical woollen undergarments to luxurious silk creations, from the miraculous invention of nylon to the simple stocking hung from the mantelpiece waiting for Father Christmas.

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Introduction by Victor Arwas

Victor Arwas was one of the leading scholars and experts in the fine and decorative arts from the late nineteenth century onwards. He wrote over twenty books, including Glass Art Nouveau to Art Deco, Art Deco, and Art Deco Sculpture as well as monographs on individual artists. Several of his books are the standard works on their subject. He lectured widely, broadcasting on television and radio, organised many international exhibitions, and helped form several museum and private collections through his gallery, Editions Graphiques in London.

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"Whether you're a fan of illustrative fashion books, pin up art, or fashion history; The Stocking Book is a must, and it's sultry satin cover will look astounding in your boudoir"
Alt Fashion

"From its delicate pink fabric cover, to its high quality images, The Stocking Book will make an excellent read for anyone with an interest in fashion"
Style Magazine