Needlework Picture, Death of John the Baptist, by Unknown Maker

DateLate 17-early 18th century

MediumSilk, metal, and chenille threads on satin-weave silk, net, mica, spangles, metal purl, beads, lace, dress fabric, glass, wood

DimensionsFramed: OH: 17 1/2" x OW: 21 3/4"

Credit LinePartial gift of Betty Kramer Brown and Stuart H. Brown

Object number2000-331

DescriptionThis is a rectangular raised work needlework picture worked in silk, chenille, and metal threads on satin-weave silk. The picture depicts Salome displaying the head of John the Baptist for her mother and father, Herodias and Herod, from Matthew 14:1-11. Herodias holds a fork, prepared to prod John the Baptist's tongue. On the table is a plate of what may be bread rolls and another plate with a lobster. In addition to Salome, Herodias, and Herod, there are 11 additional onlookers around the table who bend forward to see the head. There is a little boy in front of the table who looks at the viewer and who is accompanied by a monkey with a hoop in its mouth. Herod is accompanied by a seated dog, and is framed by a canopy with fringe on it. In the back left corner are two female onlookers, as well as a lute and trumpet player. They are positioned next to a column. The columns that dot the background, including one that is peppered with bits of mica to make it sparkle, indicate that the scene takes place indoors. Through an arch is a castle in the distance. The scene is grounded by a checkerboard floor. This picture is framed in a molded hardwood veneer frame. A paper label on back reads: "The Rowley Gallery Ltd, established in Kensington since 1898, framemakers."

Stitches: back, chain, couched, detached buttonhole, French knots, outline, over twisting, queen, satin, spider web, split, straight, tent
Label TextThis needlework picture, which depicts Salome presenting the head of John the Baptist to her parents Herod and Herodias, is unusual for its graphic style and well-established facial features. Although it matches the size, subject, and style of needlework pictures from 17th-century England, its figures look unlike any of those seen in contemporaneous needlework. Perhaps it is from the Netherlands, the place of origin of its print source. No similar needlework pictures from the Netherlands have been identified thus far.
MarkingsA paper label on back of the frame reads: "The Rowley Gallery Ltd, established in Kensington since 1898, framemakers."
ProvenanceExcollection of Mr. and Mrs. Stuart H. Brown