This comprehensive book provides a global perspective on the properties and powers of furniture. Programs in the visual arts - art, architecture, interior design - are all facing the challenge of providing students with information from around the world. History of Furniture: A Global View covers the major historical movements in furniture design from prehistoric periods through to contemporary design, including those regions that traditional history books ignore or underserve such as Africa and China. It presents the achievements of Western furniture designers, not in isolation from the rest of the world, but in vibrant contact with it including, for example, the influence of Islamic design on Romanesque style and Thailand's interpretation of Art Nouveau. Features: -- Large, color illustrations featured throughout the text -- Chronology of historic events, key terms, biographies of important designers in each chapter -- Comprehensive glossary, including the numerous unfamiliar terms used in furnishings -- Instructor's Guide provides suggestions for planning the course and using the text in the classroom.