Colin Snow
The use of blankets for warmth and comfort has been a common practice since prehistoric times, with the earliest evidence suggesting that our ancestors used animal furs or skins for this purpose. Blankets have evolved over time, with ancient civilisations in Egypt, Rome, India, and China utilising them for various purposes, including warmth, decoration, and social status symbols. The term blanket itself may have originated from a Flemish weaver named Thomas Blanket in the 14th century, though earlier usage of the word is possible. Modern blanket weaving began in the late 1700s, and technological advancements have led to diverse, high-quality, and affordable blankets that cater to various consumer needs and preferences.
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What You'll Learn
Ancient Egyptian blankets
Humans have been seeking warmth under covers since prehistoric times. The earliest evidence points to the use of animal furs or skins to provide heated comfort. Our first known blankets were unearthed in South Africa and date back to 2000 BC, indicating that weaving blankets was a survival skill that predated written documentation.
Ancient Egyptians used linen sheets around 1000 AD for warmth and protection. Linen is derived from the fibres of the flax plant and is known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. It is a strong, lightweight fabric that was ideal for the hot Egyptian climate. The ancient Egyptians may have also used woollen blankets, as wool was available to them and is a common material for blankets due to its warmth and thickness.
While there is limited information specific to blankets in ancient Egypt, we can infer that they played a significant role in their culture. Blankets provide comfort and warmth, and in a climate like Egypt's, where temperatures can drop at night, having a linen or woollen blanket would have been essential.
Today, Egyptian cotton is renowned for its quality and softness, and while it may not have been the same variety grown in ancient Egypt, it is possible that the ancient Egyptians had access to similar types of cotton. They may have used cotton blankets, especially during the hotter seasons, as cotton is a breathable and lightweight fabric.
In modern times, throw blankets with Egyptian themes, such as hieroglyphics, gods, and cultural motifs, are available for purchase. These blankets often feature ancient Egyptian symbols and designs, reflecting a continued fascination with ancient Egyptian culture and history.
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Roman blankets
Humans have been using blankets to keep warm since prehistoric times. The earliest evidence of blankets being used was unearthed in South Africa and dates back to 2000 BC. These early blankets were made from animal furs or skins, and their use was likely a survival skill that predates written documentation.
While I cannot find specific information about Roman blankets, I can provide some general information about blankets in the ancient world. The ancient Romans likely used blankets, given that they are one of the oldest types of bedding and that the Romans are known to have used other forms of bedding, such as mattresses and pillows, which were often stuffed with reeds, hay, or wool. Blankets were also used by the military, and militaries are some of the biggest consumers of woollen blankets, which the Romans would have had access to.
The term "blanket" itself is thought to derive from the 14th-century Flemish weaver Thomas Blanket (Blanquette), who lived in Bristol, England. However, the word may have been used earlier as a borrowing of the Old French word "blanket," which refers to a type of fabric and is attested as early as 1278.
Today, you can find Roman-themed throw blankets featuring original designs sold by independent artists, often featuring symbols of Roman legions, such as eagles and emblems.
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Chinese blankets
Humans have been using blankets for warmth and comfort since prehistoric times. The earliest evidence of blankets being used points to animal furs or skins, with the first known blankets unearthed in South Africa and dated to 2000 BC.
When it comes to the Chinese blankets, there is a variety of options available, with some of the most popular ones being:
- Silk blankets: Silk blankets are known for their luxurious feel and hypoallergenic properties, making them perfect for people with sensitive skin or allergies. These blankets are usually crafted with a blend of silk and viscose, offering both warmth and breathability. They are often associated with opulence and comfort, providing a cocoon of softness.
- Wool blankets: Wool is a traditional material for blankets and has been used for centuries. Chinese wool blankets, such as the extra-quality merino wool blanket, are known for their warmth and coziness. They are perfect for tucking yourself into a cocoon of warmth during cold nights.
- Cotton blankets: Cotton is another popular material for Chinese blankets, especially in warmer climates. Cotton blankets, such as the Pink Pagoda Collage Japanese Design blanket, are lightweight and breathable, providing comfort without overheating. They are often appreciated for their soft and comfortable feel.
- Specialty blankets: Chinese culture also offers specialty blankets such as the Buddhism Funeral Blanket and the Son and Grandchildren Blanket, which hold symbolic and cultural significance. These blankets may have specific purposes or be used during certain occasions, incorporating traditional beliefs and practices.
- Decorative blankets: Chinese decorative blankets often feature intricate designs and patterns, such as the Oriental Pattern Bedding or the Asian Throw Blanket. These blankets not only provide warmth but also add a touch of cultural aesthetics to the living space, blending functionality and artistic expression.
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Woollen blankets
The use of the term "blanket" arose from a specific fabric called "blanke", a heavily napped undyed woollen weave. The name possibly originated from Thomas Blanket (Blanquette), a Flemish weaver who lived in Bristol, England, in the 14th century. However, the term might have been borrowed from the Old French word "blanket", which was used as early as 1278.
The wool industry was once a key part of Wales's economy, and Welsh blankets are now treasured for their unique patterns and expert craftsmanship. The National Wool Museum of Wales showcases the history of the Welsh woollen industry and has a working mill producing blankets, tapestry blankets, throws, and cushions. Similarly, the Sanskrit word "Kambala" refers to a woollen blanket made from sheep or goat hair in ancient India.
Today, woollen blankets continue to be popular due to their warmth and breathability, making them ideal for cold nights or outdoor use. The emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly materials has also contributed to their resurgence, as wool is a renewable and biodegradable option.
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Early modern blankets
The concept of the blanket in its modern form did not exist in prehistoric times. Early humans relied on animal skins, furs, and plant materials to provide warmth, comfort, and protection from the elements. These rudimentary coverings are the precursors to the blankets we know today.
By the Middle Ages, bedding started to resemble something closer to what we use today. People began to use wooden bed frames with mattresses filled with hay, straw, or feathers. The wealthier an individual was, the more luxurious their bed. Nobles and royalty slept on feather beds, often with multiple layers of blankets and furs. In medieval Europe, the “great bed” was a significant piece of furniture, often passed down through generations. It was not uncommon for these beds to be large enough to accommodate multiple people, serving as a communal sleeping space for the family.
The term "blanket" arose from the generalization of a specific fabric called blanke, a heavily napped undyed woolen weave. A popular theory suggests that the name is derived from Thomas Blanket (Blanquette), a Flemish weaver who lived in Bristol, England, in the 14th century. However, earlier usage of the term is possible, as it may have been borrowed from the Old French word "blanket" for the type of fabric, attested as early as 1278 and derived from the adjective "blanc," meaning "white."
Modern blanket weaving was first started in the late 1700s when wool and cotton weavers from England began experimenting with techniques to produce thicker fabrics that could be used for both clothing and bed linens. While early modern blankets were often made using natural fibers, the mid-1800s marked the development of automated weaving and spinning machines by English engineers. This innovation enabled the faster production of blankets and the mass production of synthetic fabrics like acrylic, polyester, and nylon, which remain popular today.
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Frequently asked questions
The use of blankets dates back to prehistoric times, with the earliest evidence pointing to animal furs or skins being used for warmth. The first known blankets were discovered in South Africa and dated back to 2000 BC.
Blankets have served various purposes in different cultures throughout history. In ancient Egypt, they were used for warmth and comfort, with linen being the primary material. Romans used wool blankets for warmth, and they also served as room dividers and makeshift garments. In ancient China, blankets were made from silk and used for warmth, decoration, and social gatherings.
Blankets were initially a luxury item, reserved for the wealthy due to the manual labour required to produce them. With technological advancements, such as the modernisation of weaving techniques in the late 1700s, blankets became more accessible to the general public. Today, blankets are mass-produced using various materials, including acrylic, polyester, mink, cotton, fleece, and wool, catering to different preferences and purposes.
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