Pictorial Silk Embroidery

A delightful little silk embroidered picture, this is a depiction of a young couple, perhaps courting, under a tree with a large house in the background. Silk thread was used to depict the young man and young lady, the large leaves, the willow branches, the delicate fence, the brick chimney and the single flowering plant. Beautifully worked chenille threads form the lush lawn, tree trunks and house – overall this is an excellent example. The origin is likely New England, specifically Massachusetts.

The gentleman’s short jacket, striped trousers and hat were fashionable attire in the early 19th century; we particularly like his buckle shoes. The tree in the foreground arches over the couple nicely and its large serrated leaves provide a nice visual component. The two leaves at far left were drawn onto the silk but not stitched, allowing us to know something of the process in this case. 

Worked in silk and chenille on silk with graphite pencil drawing, it remains in excellent condition and is conservation mounted into a period gold leaf frame.