Throughout the Arab world, embroidery has been as central to the cultural heritage of the region as calligraphy, the miniature, woodwork, ceramics or silverware. Embroidered textiles have been produced for thousands of years across North Africa and the Middle East to decorate public buildings, homes and animals as well as to clothe men, women and children. They have played an important role in the social and cultural lives of communities and peoples and have reflected the economic and political changes that have affected the region from the earliest times.

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