Wall Hanging
Maker
Unknown
Date1790
MediumSilk on silk
Dimensions81 × 41 3/8 inches (205.7 × 105.1 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mary Haskell Minis.
Object number1941.18
On View
On view
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThe plant samples embroidered in satin stitch and couched on this long silk panel, possibly a bed hanging, are products of fantasy. Each features an assortment of flowers and fruits blooming or hanging from the same vines. This kind of imagery was likely inspired by Southeast Asian textiles with “Tree of Life” motifs, in which a single, vining tree produces multiple varieties of flowers and fruit, as seen on the bed covering below. In the 17th century, the Dutch and English East India Companies imported these fabrics to Europe, where the blooming trees became highly popular and were incorporated into many textile designs.
Text written for 'Lingua Flora,' on view from June 21–September 8, 2024.