The Tree of Life

Unknown

first half 17th century · Canvas worked with silk thread; tent, Gobelin, and couching stitches · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Figurative needlework in Tudor and Stuart homes often adorned cushion covers or table and cupboard carpets. A talented female amateur likely sewed this piece, using a professionally prepared kit with the design outlined in advance on canvas. Fruit-bearing trees sheltering wildlife were especially popular patterns. The scenes acted as reminders of Biblical abundance: both the Creation and the promise of the celestial Tree of Life.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first half 17th century

Medium

Canvas worked with silk thread; tent, Gobelin, and couching stitches

Culture

British

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964