Needlework Picture, Jephthah and His Daughter, by Unknown Maker

Date1640-1670

MediumSilk and metallic threads on a silk ground with glass beads, inked details, and linen tape

DimensionsOH: 12 3/4" x OW: 18 1/2"

Credit LineBequest of Elizabeth Ridgely Blagojevich.

Object number1991-403

DescriptionThis is a needlework picture consisting of silk and metallic threads on a silk ground, with glass beads and appliqued canvas work. The picture depicts the Biblical story "Jephthah and His Daughter." In the center is a female figure playing a drum and a flute, followed by a woman playing a lute. Facing the flute-playing woman is a man with his left hand across his chest. Behind him is a male figure holding a spear. Above the male and female figure who face each other are two female figures. On either side of them are leafy trees. In the top left corner is a sun and clouds, and in the top right corner is a large castle with many flags. On the bottom of the needlework picture is a stag in the bottom left corner and a lion in the bottom right. Between these two animals are flowers, plants, insects, and birds. In the spaces between figures are flowers, birds, and insects.

Stitches: bullion knots, couched, encroaching Gobelin, French knots, laid work (some couched), needle lace, plaited over cord, satin (plain, shaded, couched, and some over cord), split, stem, tent
Label TextThis needlework picture, stitched in England in approximately the third quarter of the 17th century, depicts the Biblical story "Jephthah and His Daughter." The needleworker stitched the exact moment Jephthah’s daughter emerges from his home, playing instruments to celebrate her father's victory, and Jephthah realizes he must sacrifice her because of a vow he had made to God declaring he would sacrifice the first thing that came out of his house in return for victory in war. In the background of the picture is Jephthah's house, as well as two of Jephthah's daughter's companions, mourning the sacrifice of their friend. Old Testament subjects were very popular amongst 17th-century amateur needleworkers, especially stories such as "Jephthah and His Daughter," where women demonstrate their piety.
ProvenanceBequest of Elizabeth Blagojevich; no further provenance is known.