Cheval Screen with Embroidered Panel

Designerpossibly designed by May Morris (British, 1862 - 1938)

Maker Morris and Company (London, British, 1861 - 1940)

Collections

ClassificationsDECORATIVE ARTS

Dateca. 1880

Mediumsilk on cotton; mahogany frame and stand

Dimensions21 1/4 x 21 in. (54 x 53.3 cm.) frame: 39 1/4 x 26 1/4 x 11 in. (99.7 x 66.7 x 27.9 cm.)

DescriptionVarious curling stems emerging from a central point at the base of the frame, twining symmetrically - in shades of pale green on off-white ground; large pink poppy-like blossoms hanging down like bells, in shades of pale pink.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Status

Not on view

Label TextThe firm had begun producing embroidered decoration for church commissions in its early years. By the 1870s, the firm had expanded its offerings to include completed wall hangings, fire screens, cushion covers, tablecloths, and embroidery kits. This particular fire screen is similar to many offered in the firm's embroidery catalogue. It demonstrates Morris's influence in the types of stitches employed, which are sewn in close parallel lines (called satin stitches) and follow the course of the pattern, emphasizing the organic growth of the plant forms.

Object number2000.5.1871