Extraordinary Georgian finds from an extensive embroidery collection

A recent sale saw a large and magnificent collection being on offer, some of the items reaching £4000.00 and more.

They all came from a private collection, and although I know little about the one's I have for sale, I completely trust the descriptions provided. I just know that I love them!

The collection seems to be largely sought from Northern Europe and at least one of my items is German. Others may originate from Holland. More research is needed here.

The most rare, is a sample board of 18th Century passementerie silk braids, presumably used to show to ladies who were ordering their latest fashion outfit from the tailor. Each of the braids is different and beautifully plaited, in a range of colours and hues. I just adore the shield shaped sample at the base, Although I know little about paper and board of the time, it is all clearly hand made and the design of the board covering is hand worked, possibly block printed?

This sample board has an 'overflow' booklet, not as nice in presentation, but with extra samples, which will come along with the main board. Here, the paper is watermarked, but I cannot find a date.

Amazing collection!

The second item is a bit of a Regency mystery, being either a garter or a bookmark, and dated to 1819, with the initials of L.B. Quite stunning, the colours are muted but gloriously kind to each other, as only the Georgian could do.

It is a continuous band, but with two halves decorated differently - the top half a scrolling vine of blue Convolvulus flowers, and the lower half in pink on blue and possibly sweet peas? A most appealing and finely worked piece. This is German in origin.

If a garter, all it needs is a length of early ribbon at each end to finish.

The final piece is the smallest and my favourite! I simply adore the extensive amount of work in such a tiny length. This is a book mark and mounted onto pink paper [hand made of course!]

Dating to 1817, with the initials of M.M., the bookmark is divided into embroidery sections, each one so tiny and full of detail.

So, we have my favourite emblem of the Georgian period, a cornucopia 'Horn of Plenty' of flowers, a beaded rose, more flower arrangements, hearts, and berries. All in one sublime tiny length. Adore it!

Further items from this collection will be placed in my Ebay shop, equally fine but slightly later, up to the 1840's. Do take a look!

Thanks for reading!