Gold-Thread Embroidered Cover
Unknown Artist
1800s
Medium
silk, gilt-metal, silver-metal, paper, cotton padding; satin weave, embroidery
Dimensions
194.3 × 157.5 cm
Classification
Embroidery
Department
Textiles
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Wade
Accession Number
1916.1288
About this artwork
Silk fabrics embroidered with gold thread appear to have ranked second only to gemstone-embellished textiles. Both were more prestigious than brocaded silks, which are more numerous. Embroidery was an essential component of daily life because it served innumerable covering functions. In this vibrant example with European influence, blossoming plants and foliate motifs embellish the field and border. Gold, silver, and silk thread cover paper templates which are secured with thread raised from und...