18th Century Colifichet Embroidery On Paper Double Sided Neeedlework C 1780

We have this last needlework to offer from a single owner collection of 1700s Colifichet embroideries. A Colifichet was a very delicate type of double-sided needlework that originated in China in antiquity yet became popularized by European nuns (primarily in France and Italy) during the 18th century. The technique requires extreme skill so that both the front and the back of the needlework are identical, completely free from the usual messy loose threads, knots, or untidiness that you would typically see to the reverse of a standard embroidery. Usually a Colifichet was wrought in the finest silk floss upon laid paper, parchment, or vellum instead of fabric.

Our rectangular Colifichet is unopened, the ripples in the ground suggest Vellum. We see a delicate floral spray of flowers worked in peach and green coloured silk floss with gold wire thread detailing. It is housed in a more modern dark wood, very simpler frame, being glazed to both front and reverse. This enables us to enjoy the amazing skill of the embroiderer from both sides.

Size: Frame approx 9 inch tall by 5 3/4 inch wide (23.5 cm by 14.5 cm)

Condition: Very good. As you would expect one face is more faded than the other. The front exposed to two centuries of light exposure, the back therefore is much fresher and crisper.

Item Id: 16690