Collection Online
Fragments of embroidery

Fragments of embroidery
(early 17th century)

Medium
linen, silk (thread), metal (thread, spangles)

Measurements
(a-b) 31.5 × 22.2 cm irreg.

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 1913

Gallery location
Not on display

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About this work

These two embroidered linen fragments survive from a larger work, most likely a loose-cut jacket or decorative flat cover. Featuring a dominant strapwork design worked in surface stitches using silver-gilt metal threads, scrolling curves terminate in finials with grotesque fish-like heads armed with sharp teeth. Amidst this runs a finer, secondary interlace decorated with honeysuckles, tulips, roses and strawberries, while further birds, caterpillars and butterflies enliven the overall design.

Close inspection shows the underlying inked design is visible where the embroidery threads are missing, suggesting it was marked out by a professional pattern drawer.

Artwork Details

Place/s of Execution
(England)

Inscription
none

Accession Number
966.a-b-D2

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