Accept this Trifle
Wall Pocket, England, 1839
A wonderful treasure - this is a rare and excellent example of the extremely fine needlework made at orphanages and charity schools in England in the 19th century. It was likely made at the Raines Charity School (also known as Mr. Raines Asylum, now the Raines Foundation School) in London.
Various forms were made and they are generally not signed or dated. This is a wall pocket which, remarkably, retains its original teal-blue silk ribbon edging. We see very few of these and the fact that this one is dated renders it even more unusual than others.
The sentimental phrase, “Accept this Trifle,” was used in the 19th century to lovingly downplay the gift while emphasizing the giver's deep affection and good wishes. In this case, the gift need not have been downplayed!
The back fabric is a beautiful bright blue and we took a photo of it prior to conservation mounting. This is in excellent condition and has been conservation mounted into a shadowbox frame.
image of reverse