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1 of 253523 objects
Attributed to Leek Embroidery Society
Peacock embroidery 1885-95
Tussar silk, silk embroidery thread, sequins, glass | RCIN 68948
Attributed to Leek Embroidery Society
Peacock embroidery 1885-95
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A rectangular needlework picture of two peacocks, attributed to the Leek Embroidery Society, est. 1879. On a cream silk ground, likely of hand-woven Indian tussar (alt. 'tussah') silk, embroidered in Leek with two peacocks on stylised flowering foliage over stylised rocks, with green velvet plumage decorated with purple, pink, yellow, white and silver thread, bugle beads and sequins. Framed and glazed.
Many of the Leek Embroidery Society's designs were based on traditional Indian motifs and flora from the subcontinent. The school was founded by Elizabeth Wardle (1834-1902) and relied heavily on tussar silk acquired in India and dyed by Sir Thomas Wardle. Its outputs were distinguished by the use of vibrant, jewel-like silk threads, for which tussar floss was particularly suited.
The Leek Embroidery Society had connections to the Arts and Crafts Movement, and its works were stocked by William Morris' shop and Liberty & Co. in London. -
Creator(s)
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Medium and techniques
Tussar silk, silk embroidery thread, sequins, glass
Category
Object type(s)
Place of Production
Leek [Staffordshire]
