Page 20 - Demo

This richly colored embroidered folk art picture is an outstanding example of the Scandinavian handcraft tradition, called %u201chemslojd%u201d in Sweden, which enjoyed popularity at the end of the 19th century and produced some bold and whimsical needlework pictures. Certain regional characteristics indicate that our example is likely Swedish in origin and other visual clues lead to the assumption that it was made to commemorate a marriage. The featured couple clasp hands and hold up a narrow Tree of Life topped by a radiating sun, symbolizing life and good fortune. The lady wears a tradition folk costume including apron and boots and the gentleman sports a military sash across his long, gold-buttoned coat. The image of the stork represents fertility and birth and the large hearts hold obvious meaning. Interestingly, the maker also included a goat, an historic Swedish motif generally used at Christmas time, called the %u201cjulbock%u201d or Yule Goat. Worked in polychrome wool on green wool, this is in excellent condition. It has been conservation mounted and is in a maple and cherry cornerblock frame. Sight size: 21%u201d x 20%u201d Frame size: 25%u00bd%u201d x 24%u00bd%u201d Price: $2700.By the second quarter of the 19th century, American needleworkers were using the relatively newly available Merino wool yarn for their samplers and other needlework projects. The wool from the Merino sheep was fleecier and softer than the traditional worsted wool and it took dyes well, resulting in a yarn that was both easier and more satisfying to stitch. This folky depiction of a highly decorative basket with a robust flower arrangement makes wonderful use of Merino wool yarn and contrasts it well with the very fine gauzy linen background.A variety of stitches was used to excellent effect. The stems, tendrils, leaf veins and open-work lattices of the basket were all worked in chain stitch and satin stitch and a variation of French knots form the balance of the work. It is in excellent condition and has been conservation mounted. Importantly, it remains in its outstanding original painted frame with rosette cornerblocks that nicely echo the needlework flower blossoms. Sight size: 8%u00bd%u201d x 11%u201dFrame size: 11%u00be%u201d x 14%u00bc%u201dPrice: $3800.16Embroidered Picture, Scandinavia, circa 1900Basket of Flowers, Needlework Picture, American, circa 1840