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Valance, Wool Embroidery

Date1750-1790

MediumThe face fabric consists of a cotton warp and a cotton/linen weft. The lining fabric and binding tape is linen. The face fabric is embroidered with with crewel embroidery threads. (Fiber identification by microscope).

DimensionsOW 13 5/8" x OL 78"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1957-203,1

DescriptionThis is one of three tabby-woven linen bed valances embroidered in multi-colored crewel (worsted wool) embroidery threads. Each valance is pieced from three widths of fabric that are stitched together along the selvedges. The embroidered design is worked in shades of pink, rose, coral, yellow, gold, yellow-green, blue-green, tan, and brown. The design consists of an all-over pattern of clover blossoms, tiger lilies, tulips, and other floral motifs, on thin scrolling stems with prominent lacy, lanceolate leaves. Each valance is lined with tabby-woven linen and bound with 5/8" linen tape. There are some machine-stitched alterations to the top edges.
Stitches: long and short, outline, stem, seed, herringbone, and French knots
Label TextThis valance is part of a suite of textile furnishings that belonged to John Cooper and his wife, Elizabeth Savage. During this period, it was common for rooms to be decorated en-suite and it is likely that there were more textiles embroidered with this pattern that did not survive. Probably made by a member of the family, these furnishings would have adorned a bed chamber.
ProvenanceThese valances, as well as a quilt (1957-204) and a chair cover (1957-202), have a history of ownership in the Cooper family of Machias and Cooper, Maine and Boston, Massachusetts. It is thought that a member of this family made these pieces for use in their home. According to a descendant, the bedspread, valances, and chair cover belonged to John Cooper (1765-1845) and his wife, Elizabeth Savage (1770-1854). The descendant also believed that John Cooper received the pieces from his father, William Cooper (1721-1809) and his wife, Katharine Wendell.

The valances, quilt, and chair cover remained in the family until 1957 when CWF purchased them from Israel Sack who in turn presumably purchased them from the descendant who recorded their provenance. This descendant was a great-great grandson or great-great granddaughter of John Cooper and Elizabeth Savage.