Wool Embroidered Curtain

DateNeedlework: 1690-1710; Curtan: ca. 1955

Artist/Maker Ernest LoNano (1931-February 15, 2013)

OriginTextile: England; Curtain: America

MediumCrewel needlework on old linen and cotton ground and new linen ground, wool tape trim

DimensionsOW: 53" x OL: 128"

Credit LineGift of Martha B. Rockefeller (Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.)

Object number1955-349,1C

DescriptionThis is one curtain of a set of curtains (1955-349,1B-C) and a window valance (1955-349,1A) made of heavy floral-designed crewelwork. The curtain is a straight-hanging panel with a pinch-pleated top heading. The curtain panels each feature a large date palm surrounded by monkeys, birds, and flowers. The date palm grows out of a serpentine green, blue, and black ground. The lining and interlining are made of modern fabric, and the curtains are bound with 5/8" wide dark green wool tape trim.
Label TextThis curtain retains the brightness of late-17th-century crewelwork, a type of embroidery that involves wool threads. The embroidery stitches create a lively scene featuring leafy trees, exotic animals, and a wide variety of flowers.
ProvenanceTextile donated by Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. (Martha B.) Accession Number G1954-264. Curtains & valances made by Ernest LoNano from textile.