This is a very striking embroidery done by combining glass beads with silk and wool embroidery. The principal stitch used to create this beautiful picture was counted cross stitch. The complicated pattern was achieved by rows of cross stitch embroidery changing from strands of soft wool yarn to silk floss interspersed with Italian glass beads. The pattern itself is typically Victorian using large cabbage roses and rosebuds mixed with leaves around a central floral motif.

The contrasting colors of yellow and blue silk with red roses and green leaves comprise a favorite Victorian color scheme that lent itself to the decorating schemes of grand manor houses. No doubt this piece was created to adorn a room done in these colorways.

It is housed in its original wood and gesso, pierced frame. The pattern of the frame is quite intricate.

The condition of the needlework panel is excellent. The color retention is nearly unbelievable as the Wedgwood blues are just as they should be, and the yellow is as pretty as it was some 170 years ago. The reds show phenomenal color retention as well. There is no staining or foxing to the woolwork or the silkwork. The glass beads appear to be all intact, with the steel beads having escaped rusting for the most part. Although original, the frame has some losses of the gilded border that edges it. Several places are missing bits of gesso work, yet its intricate design helps to hide these losses. The frame still provides a decorative presentation for the needlework and its style echoes the needlework design. The gilding has darkened with age, but it has achieved a nice antique color that works well with the piece.

It measures 20-½ inches square, including the frame.

Personal and cashier’s checks also accepted.  Please contact for international shipping rates, as well as to Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. territories.

Perry-Joyce Fine Arts

Expertise in 18th and 19th Century Needlework, British Paintings, and 19th Century Decorative Arts with over 40 Years’ Experience