Needlework Bed Hanging in the Bizarre style (left half)

1710–20

France, 18th century

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Medium

Silk, wool; needlework, tent, and cross-stitch embroidery on canvas

Measurements

Overall: 83.2 cm (32 3/4 in.)

Credit Line

Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund 2006.2.1

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Location

Not on view

Did You Know?

The design of this needlework panel is known as a "bizarre" pattern.

Description

This panel is one of a pair that would have hung originally around a bed post as part of a full set of hangings on a bedstead in the early 1700s. Elaborate textile hangings were a conspicuous display of wealth since many ladies received their friends within their bedchamber. A full set enveloped the entire bedstead and, when closed, helped retain warmth long after the fire had gone out. This particular pair of panels is remarkable in that they represent many hours of highly skilled needlework. Their design is known as a "bizarre" pattern, which mimicked woven silks of the same era that were asymmetrical, boldly stylized adaptations of Asian fabrics that were coming into the European market from the trading routes at the time.