Silk Brocade Document

Date1800-1820

MediumSilk

DimensionsOverall (H x W): 23 1/2 x 21in. (59.7 x 53.3cm) Overall: 24 x 23in. (61 x 58.4cm) Other (Design Repeat H x W): 4 1/4 x 5 1/4in. (10.8 x 13.3cm) Physical Description (PPI): 72 Physical Description (EPI): 120

Credit LineGift of F. Schumacher & Co.

Object number1952-170

DescriptionThis nearly square fragment is made of magenta, white, lime green, and dark green silk. The design consists of magenta stripes with white carnations and flower sprigs alternating with lime green stripes with a white floral vine. Between the magenta and lime green strips are narrow white tobine stripes with dark green edging in zig-zag and wavy patterns. The fragment is loosely basted to a backing that extend past the edges of the fabric; the basting stitches around along the left top and right edges of the fragment. The top and bottom edges are cut and raw, while the left and right edges are selvedges. The selvedges are held in a satin weave with dark green, pink, white, and yellow warps.
Label TextIn the early 20th century, when colonial revival styles were in vogue, design companies would collect historic samples to use as inspiration for their revival designs and for direct reproduction. This fragment was collected by F. Schumacher & Co., who still today produce reproduction fabrics for museums and revival fabrics for consumers.
Markings“#1317” in red on reverse of backing. “G52-170” in black on reverse of backing.
ProvenanceObtained by F. Schumacher & Co., New York;
Given to CWF, 1952.