About this work
This small square purse is typical of bags of the period, sometimes described as ‘sweet bags’ because they held sweet powders to scent clothes and linen. A single plant laden with flowers and leaves fills the surface. These tent-stitched flowers contrast with the background which is worked extravagantly in expensive silver thread using Gobelin stitch. The once-bright gold and silver stems are worked in a variety of plaited braid stitches. One solitary sequin remains, presumably the sole survivor of many others which would have made this bag even more luxurious and glittering.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(England)
Inscription
none
Accession Number
D59-1970
Department
International Fashion and Textiles
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest
Physical description
A small square purse, or sweete bag, linen ground embroidered with a design of Tudor roses, leaves and coiling stems in coloured silks, gold and silver metallic thread. Linen cord.