An English needlework table carpet

Some losses to stitching and some oxidized browns. Restored restitched areas, mostly in borders. Fabric backed. Good overall condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The tradition of English needlepoint-making predates this lot by centuries. The art of embroidery had been practiced in England since the earliest days of British history but it was not until the early to mid-sixteenth century that needlepoint was introduced to the British Isles from Flanders. While early English needlepoint textiles clearly reflect Italian Renaissance influences, local craftsmen quickly developed their own distinctive English style that drew inspiration from other continental schools. Needlepoint at the time was used as table covers, on articles of clothing and as furniture trimmings. By the early seventeenth century English ateliers established their own design canons and used color combinations typical to their work. The most commonly used colors were greens, blues, yellows and deep brick reds. Because English embroiderers were fortunate to have access to some of the highest-quality wool in Europe, their products became highly desirable all over the continent. In the seventeenth century, unlike in the early 1800s and later, needlepoint "carpets" were most often used on tables and were placed on the floor only in the most lavish homes. Because of its relatively small size, the lot offered here was also most likely used as table decoration with the field area precisely covering the top of the table. The central medallion showing an arrangement of fruits and vegetables could also suggest that this piece was intended to be used as a table carpet showing a vessel filled richly with the bounties of the Earth. The slightly angular, yet naturalistic depiction of these flowers, fruits and vegetables are typical to the era and can be found in contemporaneous works such as the Hulse carpet, see M. J. Majorcas, English Needlework Carpets, Leaigh-on-Sea, 1963, pl. 12. In spite of the angular nature of the flora shown, the overall design with its strap work, plump flower heads and lush leaves adds an unmistakably Baroque sensibility to this lot, making it particularly lavish and luxurious in appearance.