2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Stocking purse.

Images(2)

Purse

Date1650-1720

OriginEngland or Europe

MediumSilk sprang embroidered with silk and metallic threads on silk cores

DimensionsL: 19 3/4"; W: (at bottom): 6"

Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors

Object number1971-1421

DescriptionStocking purse in green-blue silk worked in sprang technique (oblique-frame twining). The bottom is squared in shape and embroidered with couched and padded silver metallic threads in leaf scrolls with peach-pink and green silk flowers (same design on both sides). Upper portion has geometric diamond patterning in the sprang technique. Opening slit 5 inches long. The ends of the top are tightly wrapped with silver cord and hang loose to form a five-inch tassel. Single faceted metal ring is attached.

Label TextThis purse is made in an ancient technique called sprang, in which threads are stretched on a frame and manipulated with the fingers to interlink or twine them, working from the ends toward the middle, and often using a stick to control the twists and keep them from unraveling. The resulting fabric has natural elasticity, similar to knitted products, although the techniques are done very differently.ProvenanceEx Coll: Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen