Antique Georgian Silkwork Embroidery, Moses In The Bullrushes, Verre Eglomise

ANTIQUE GEORGE III SILK, SILVER THREAD NEEDLEWORK AND STUMPWORK EMBROIDERY A charming depiction of the baby Moses being discovered in the bullrushes by the Pharaoh’s daughter, all within a classical Arcadian landscape. As is typical of English biblical depictions of this period, there is a westernised feeling; the figures are more English Princess than Egyptian Pharaoh, and there is a somewhat naive, folky style to the piece, which is completely charming. The artist has expertly used different techniques and materials, including silk, wool and what appears to be silver bullion thread. The faces are hand-painted on silk, whilst her clothing, trees and background all use different embroidery techniques, including some raised stumpwork in places specifically chosen to represent the qualities and characteristics of each item to great effect. The embroidery probably dates to the latter part of the 18th century, during the reign of George III. Circa 1780-1800 in date. The glass has been reverse-painted in black with gilded edging and four gilded flowers in what is known as Verre Églomisé techniques. It is framed in its original and highly decorative, deep-set gilt frame. Overall, the embroidery is in good vintage order with wear commensurate with age. There is a small section of the silk backing fabric, forming part of the sky to the upper right, which has deteriorated, but overall it is in good condition for its age. The glass is in excellent vintage order. The frame is worn and distressed, and has some decorative elements lacking. In our opinion, the wear on the frame is highly decorative, so we have left it in as-found condition. The piece is slightly larger than average for this type of embroidery; the approximate overall measurements are: 63cm x 56cm x 8cm.