History and Evolution of Curtains

by John J. Viva Home Decor

There is no visual evidence of use of curtains during the early and middle ages though one can imagine the homes of the affluent using woven textiles to cover the doors and window. Functionality was the deciding factor in those days. It being often cold, heavy cloth was used to keep the cold away and the interiors warm or in temperate zones the heavy textile was used to keep the light away. In the 13^th century when glass making was finally perfected in Italy then the windows got the glass option.

During the Renaissance, glass paned window buildings were recognized as modern homes though the leaded casement window style remained the basic form of architecture for many centuries. Glass windows blocked the cold, let in the light and also the stares of neighbors and strangers! Fabric was used as a veil on these glass windows to conceal whats going on inside the room but, the curtain what we think of today was still centuries away.

In the ancient civilization of the Orient as well as India and Persia, well designed and woven textile was used to cover the opening and separate the rooms though it took many years to come into European and American homes. When trade began with these nations, then came in the finely woven textiles along with the spices and other novelties. Many centuries later European countries like Italy, France and UK began textile production that was inspired from the East ad adapted to the taste of the westerners.

Style or functionality is the biggest question on the mind when one is thinking of curtains! With the concept of air-conditioning, style became of paramount importance for the window dressing. Silk, linen, cotton, wool and various material are now used to make the curtains which is tacked up over the window. The design of the curtains evolved from straight fabrics hung on the window to gathered Cambridge curtains which is for purely decorative purpose. A lot of importance is now given to curtains for this style, color coordination and a bit of functionality too. Curtains are an indispensable sleek and modern furnishing in today’s world of home décor. Choosing the right curtain for the room can simply change the look and feel of the room. Choose right, stay bright!

Source : www.vivahomedecor.com