Pocket

Date1737 (dated)

MediumWhite plain-woven linen front; silk embroidery. Later linen lining and backing.

DimensionsOH:15 7/8"; OW: 9 1/8"

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Cora Ginsburg

Object number1989-437

DescriptionTeardrop shaped pocket of white linen with a vertical center opening at the front, extending down 8 1/4" from the upper edge. The pocket is embroidered with yellow, blue, pink and green silk threads through an additional linen layer backing the embroidery. The embroidered design is arranged around a small 6-petal flower at the base of a centered tulip, surrounded by twining scrolls, flowers, berries, and leaves following the shape of the pocket. The date "1737" appears at the lower edge, enclosed by symmetrical scrolls. A chain or guilloche design worked in blue surrounds the opening on each side and borders the curved edges. The embroidery is worked in satin and chain stitches, with some knots. Some of the embroidery threads have worn away, revealing the original design drawn with blue ink. The pocket has new replaced linen lining and a single-layer linen backing, sewn in place with machine stitches. Originally, waist ties would have been attached on the upper edge; only small remnants of the ties remain.Label TextThis pocket probably was the product of a professional embroiderer who did needlework for a living.Mark(s)1737