Offering an extremely RARE and finely embroidered (and equally charming) double sided COLIFICHET (French) silk needlework w hand painting on laid paper dating to the 1790 to 1810 period. French in origin, this lovely embroidery/painting can be viewed from both sides. This Catholic schoolgirl embroidery features Jesus and a young Girl (virtually mirrored identical embroideries with the exception of painted halos on one side). The scripted ink writing is very hard to read although one side has the name of the skilled maker. A fine miniature addition to any antique schoolgirl embroidery, dollhouse or doll display.
This type of embroidery is also referred to as 'pin prick' embroidery art in some cultures. The technique of double faced embroidery originated in China during the 15th-16th centuries. It was not taught to British girls except for those sent to European Catholic schools to complete their education. French nuns during the 17th century used the word 'Colifichet' to describe their own very fine embroideries that were worked on both faces of a sheet of vellum and later paper. The unique nature of a Colifchet embroidery is that both sides are the same (mirror images) with no loose threads or untidiness that you would expect to find on the reverse of a usual needlework.
'Agnus Dei' symbolizes the saying of John the Baptist: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). When you see the Lamb of God, it is a symbol that your sins can be forgiven and your life can be transformed.
This special Catholic schoolgirl miniature embroidery is unframed and I have included photos from BOTH sides. The laid paper measures 3.5" wide x 4.75" high. The silk embroidery is in excellent condition. Some folding/discoloration to paper, as shown.
A rare opportunity to own an early religious figural schoolgirl needlework embroidery.
