Victorian 19th Century Woolwork of Figures and a Dog

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Victorian 19th Century Woolwork of Figures and a Dog:
$165.00

This piece of traditional Victorian woolwork embroidery is a familiar scene of figures entertaining themselves to pass the time by playing music on a bench in a landscape. They are accompanied by their faithful companion, a large brown and white spaniel.

Our stitcher has put in lots of interest and color in the shape of exotic plants with large leaves and flowers. The scene is one where the flora are well detailed. There is a small lake in the background.

The figures seem happy enough as they play their instruments. The stitches are done in very fine wool yarn in tent stitch that is small enough to be considered pettipoint. . The colors blend harmoniously, making for an interesting and charming picture even on their own.

The whole wool panel is surrounded by its original bird’s eye maple frame with a molded gilt slip. The frame has acquired a beautiful patina and rich chestnut color. Overall it is in good antique condition, but it does have slight losses of veneer, especially in two corners. The gilded slip has turned lemon-yellow, providing a nice contrast between the colors of the woolwork and the pretty bird’s eye maple frame. The old glass, with its imperfections and bubbles, adds to the overall antique character and appearance.

The needlework itself is in excellent condition. The blues, reds, browns, blacks and the golds have held up well. As often seen in these Victorian woolworks, the more muted shades have faded somewhat. There are no stains or moth damage to lessen the impact of this charming piece of embroidery. There are a few missing stitches, primarily in the dog, where either the stitcher overlooked them or the area experienced wear at some point.

With its harmonized color palette, traditional subject matter, large spaniel dog lying on the ground, its beautiful and rich patina and patterned original bird’s eye frame with lemon-colored slip, and antique bubbled glass, this piece would add a bit of charm to any home.

It measures 18-1/4 inches wide by 15-1/4 inches high, including the frame.