Victorian Mid - 19th Century Beadwork And Woolwork Banner
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:27417834 |
In the Victorian era, artistic and graphic symbols were an important method of communicating many characteristics held dear in society. Victorian needlework was always an important conveyor of symbolic messages in embroidery and woolwork.In this striking banner, the design is centered on a large, turquoise blue peacock strutting over a full-blown array of roses. Over the centuries, peacocks held a variety of meanings, not all of them good, but their connection with the concept of beaut...y is universal. Many of the best country houses maintained them as lawn ornaments, but they were often considered loud and unpleasant pets. In this case, we will assume that the needleworker was simply impressed by the bird’s beauty. Flowers, however, were far more complicated in Victorian times as various ones had specific meanings; with red roses standing for love, hope and joy, while white roses denoted faith.The woolwork and beadwork on this piece were done on a linen ground. Our stitcher was an accomplished beader, as the peacock was executed exceptionally well. There are feather circles of gold and light blue beads surrounded by a deep turquoise beads that wonderfully display the unique design in the peacock’s feathers. Jade green was used in the body of the bird, with gold, black and olive green embellishments. The neck and head sport bright turquoise beads as well as other colors used in the rest of the body. There also is a fine border done in three rows of shaded gold beads.The woolwork in the cascading groups of roses was done in Berlin counted cross stitch. The yarns were no doubt purchased from Germany during the height of the Berlin woolwork craze; that is, around 1860. The bright colors and hues of the yarn are typical of the type being imported into England during this time.The linen ground, with the woolwork and beadwork on it, was edged in gold cording and ended at the bottom edge with gold fringing. Part of the cording hangs down on both sides, ending with two fabulous tassels. The back of the banner was lined in gold pure silk. The banner has 5 original black steel hooks there that would have secured it to rings of a fireplace pole screen or clamp.The beadwork and the woolwork are both in excellent condition. The color retention in both is phenomenal. This fact alone makes me think that this piece was hidden away in drawers rather than exposed to sunlight. There is some minor staining on the linen ground, mainly near the peacock’s face. There is little wear to the woolwork. The linen has age toned somewhat, but consistently, to provide the banner with a nice antique color. There is a slight separation of the gold cording from the edge of the banner on the upper right side; this is minor, and if I find the time, I may repair this myself. The back silk is in very good condition with no tears or splits, but it does have scattered bits of staining and some soiling around the edges. Considering the banner’s age, these are very minor faults.It measures 21-1/2 inches high and 15-3/4 inches wide.Personaland cashier’s checks also accepted. Pleasecontact for international shipping rates, as well as to Alaska, Hawaii and U.S.territories.Perry-Joyce Fine ArtsExpertise in 18th and 19th Century Needlework, BritishPaintings, and 19th Century Decorative Arts with over 35 Years’ Experience
