A CHARLES II NEEDLEWORK AND STUMPWORK PICTURE, THIRD QUARTER 17TH CENTURY

depicting Jael, Esther, Debroah, and Judith, worked in rococo, couching, tent and other stitches.

Overall in very good condition with good retention to colors and needlework. Interesting in the use of stumpwork for the central cartouche and the top two figures. Some areas of the border/edges have frayed. Some losses to silk thread due to oxidation- mainly to the central scene.
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.

This stunning needlework exhibits a wide range of stitches including stumpwork, couched metal thread, and the elaborate rococo stitch. The four figures represent some of the strongest heroines of the Old Testament. While Esther uses her position as Queen to save her people, the other three commit violent acts to win wars and destroy their enemies. Female needleworkers often discussed the stories behind the characters and scenes that they embroidered, so these four women held a place of importance in the contemporaneous discourse. While it is unclear whether the needleworkers saw these women as role models, unattainable ideals, exceptional transgressors, or just interesting characters, they surely held the collective imagination of English women of that time, as they are seen frequently in needlework pictures, mirror frames, and other embroidered works.