About this work
Berlin wool-work patterns were first published in the early nineteenth century as a standardised form of domestic needlecraft. Black-and-white patterns were printed onto grid paper and then hand-coloured; a method that enabled the amateur to clearly identify the colour and count of each stitch. Later, these designs were industrially printed. Typically worked in cross- or tent stitch, Berlin work is characterised by the use of vibrantly-hued wool yarns often stitched in several shades of the same colour to produce a three-dimensional effect. This particular sampler was most likely a reference tool illustrating how designs would look when worked.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(England)
Inscription
stitched in pink wool u.l.: LAE.
Accession Number
D118-1978
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
Cross stitch (single and double), Bargello, couching, glass beads.