Dransart (anthropology and archaeology, U. of Wales) and Wolfe (textiles, British Museum, London) offer design professionals and aficionados a sampling of some 30 rare and beautiful early Andean works, dating from 200 BC to the late 18th century AD. The text includes an essay discussing the history of textiles in the Andes; raw materials, colors and dyes, and spinning and weaving techniques that were used; division of labor between children, women, and men in Andean textile production; the role of textiles in rites of passage; and contemporary Andean weaving. Each of the featured textiles is illustrated with full-color photographs of the complete piece plus close-ups, accompanied by information about the creation date, fabrication technique and materials, imagery, and dimensions. The text also includes a map, glossary, and selected reading list. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)