In the earliest periods of human history, we can well imagine that the invention of string was closely followed by the fabrication of knots. A basic knot is made from a piece of string by pulling one end through a loop. If you continue looping you create a knitted structure, or you can use three or more ends to make braids.
Where was this textile created?
Mantel fringe, by George Henry Devereux
Europe: Western Europe, Great Britain, England
1914 - 1922
Jute, knotted
170 cm x 13 cm
Gift of H. E. Devereux
T95.0212 Textile Museum of Canada
George Henry Devereux (the father of the donor) made this knotted cord mantel fringe when he was a member of the Royal Navy. This type of decorative knotting is known as macramé. The availability of ropes on board ships made it a popular activity for sailors on wind- and steam-powered ships between the 16th and 20th centuries.
Where would we be without knots? Well-made knots have supported the growth and advancement of all human enterprise – in ships, buildings of all kinds, and animal husbandry to name only a few applications.
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