This exceptional late Victorian or perhaps Edwardian silk shawl demonstrates some of the most exquisite hand embroidery and beading I have seen in a long time.
The design is of large circular almost daisy motifs of hand applied black bugle beads, upon which there are embroidered threads of fine silk. The background consists of a vaguely geometric design of (almost) Cornelliwork in dark brown, and further black silk embroidered accents.
The long panels at the front of the shawl which hang from a circular smocked area display a more border like design of beads and embroidery.
There is a lining of the finest silk chiffon, which apart from one threadbare hole, the size of a ten cent piece is still strong and not papery.
Condtion is quite remarkable for a piece of this age.
There are some small discrepancies along the seams here and there which have come undone slightly, but this could easily be reinforced. But there are no tears ,stains, moth holes or discolouration, or major losses to beads or embroidery.
I have shown one small area along the front panel where there are some missing beads. And some further losses along the edge of the border. But apart from this, this piece is in excellent order.
Size, free size.
Width measured from top to bottom 70cm
Width of front panels 34cm
Total length 234cm