Traditional Palestinian Costume

Hanan Karaman Munayyer's latest book explores the history, tradition, and significance of traditional Palestinian costume as a poignant, continued example of aesthetic political resistance and national identity ... A history of Palestine through embroidery, this is a book not to be missed. The collection challenges Palestine's erasure as a result of the dominant, and fabricated, Zionist narratives. Moreover, the book is a valuable addition to the sources which document the forgotten, or marginalized, Palestinian historical narratives. The embroidery weaves its own story, against a backdrop of violent dispossession which needs to be resisted by all means, including disseminating the stories of overlooked Palestinian history. [A] monumental volume ' this inspiring contribution testifies to the Palestinian people's unwavering commitment to the belief that their right to national and human dignity is irreversible and its realization is inevitable.--Dr. Clovis Maksoud Stunningly gorgeous ' This is a work of passionate commitment and unstinting dedication. Its comprehensiveness, density, elegance and sheer beauty are a tribute both to the subject and the author.--Dr. Walid Khalidi Traditional Palestinian Costume is a magnificent work of deep love; among the most elegant artistic productions between two covers I have seen... Meeting this book is like opening a treasure box. Congratulations on your gift to the Palestinian nation, the Arab heritage and indeed the cultural legacy of the world.... [A] beautiful volume now showcases 25 years of research by Munayyer, who has trolled museums, libraries and private collections around the world to shape this book. It documents costumes from antiquity to modern times, categorizing regional specificities, especially since the late 19th century onwards. Superbly illustrated-the book counts no less than 500 photographs documenting abayas, head gear, sashes, and the all important brides' trousseaus, which young girls would start working on from their early teens-this is a mesmerizing must-have coffee table book.