I have read an article that states that it was manufactured as early as the 12th century. However, the author does not site the source that this information comes from. The author does list the reference sources she used but I have not had access to the text as of yet. I plan on looking at the sources to see if I can find more information but hoped that some one may have more information.

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I think this topic came up before and the only sources I found said that the fabric was 17th century. I have never seen an earlier reference cited. As Bob always says, "What I don't know would fill a warehouse..."

Following is the link to the very brief topic.
http://www.wolfeargent.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=7&t=000156

Until I can get to the sources she cites I really have a problem with stating that she is correct. I do not mean this to come across as stating she is wrong, just that I am unsure. It is funny how I do not second guess printed authors or "scholars" very often, but I do fact check e-print authors and non-scholars.

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Here's a little bit that I got for the Laura Hodge's book, Chaucer and Costume, In it she states, Daniel Rock, textile fabrics (London 1876) p 73, gives the origins of Fustian as Fustat, Egypt, on the Nile. There are two kinds - velveteen and corderoy, with a linen warp and a cotton weft." Hodges also cites a 1443 royal entry that lists a 'white ribbed fustian' or corduroy. (p 45-6)

What I gather is that all kinds of things were being done with velvets including variations of faric content, different pile lengths and voided or cut velvet.

I don't think corduroy had to be fustian. It may be more like a texture, like a voided velvet pattern or a weaving pattern.

I don't know how early this was being done however. 12th c? Guess I need to dive into the books again. : )

Raella

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