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CHIMNEYPIECE |
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The culmination of an upper-class
18th century New England girl's education was the creation of
a needlework picture like this one. Popular English engravings
of bucolic and hunting scenes provided the inspiration for many
a needlework chef
d'oeuvre, both in England and
, later, in America. Many New England pictorial embroideries
of the 18th century follow English design influences, particularly
these scenes in idyllic Arcadian landscapes. So popular was needlework
in this century that it is said of England's Queen Mary (joint
ruler with King William, 1689-1694) that she was oftener seen with a skein of thread
about her neck than attending to affairs of state. Such was the prevailing attitude toward fine
needlework that heralded in the 18th century. To properly enjoy
these naive and cheerful scenes one must disregard perspective,
and appreciate the youthful optimism and exuberance of the work.
Larger pieces, such as this, were intended for prominent display,
as the focal point of a room, directly above the fireplace mantle,
the frame often sporting attached candle sconces, hence the descriptive
name 'chimneypiece.' Ours is designed after these spectacular
18th century pictorial needleworks. |
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Rated: Any skill level
Finished size: 11-1/2"x27"
Stitches: Satin, stem, French knots, bullion, tent,
lazy daisy, long and short, buttonhole, back, outline
Kit with cotton floss: $85.00
Kit with silk floss: $158.00
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