Terms and conditions of use
Braces
(c. 1860)
Medium
cotton (canvas), wool (thread), glass (beads), steel (beads), silk (thread, grosgrain), kid leather (kidskin, tabs), metal (buckle), rubber (elastic), sinew (cord)
Measurements
(a-b) 80.0 × 5.5 cm (each)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 1982
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
The hard-wearing nature of Berlin work, and the ease with which it could be stitched, resulted in a proliferation of ornamental needlework within Victorian homes. Interiors were transformed by vivid wool-work firescreens, valances and seat covers in a range of designs that included floral imagery, favoured pets and famous paintings. Men’s wardrobes were also made over with embroidery; slippers, smoking caps and braces became popular gifts for fathers and husbands courtesy of patterns published in instructional magazines such as The Ladies’ Home Journal. Braces in particular were considered a perfect wedding gift from a bride to her fiancé.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(England)
Accession Number
CT98.a-b-1982
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