Dutch Embroidery Frame

(39"x19"x18")

This charming 18th-century embroidery frame is of Dutch origin and is constructed entirely from oak, boasting an excellent condition for its age and history of use. The structure includes a floor stand and hoop supported by a frame, which altogether stand at around 3 ½ feet. The sturdy base features a wide outer lip and two sets of double-ring motifs surrounding and drawing attention to the central, tapered shaft which narrows as it approaches a cylindrical block. A peg allows the user to adjust the angle of the neck piece, hinged on a rotating ovular structure supporting a crossbar and arms to which the hoop is secured. Decorative carvings – including similar double-ring motifs, tapering and decorative teardrop ends on the upper frame – establish harmony with the lower structure. This object would have been used on a daily basis in 18th-century Dutch homes for the activity of tambour embroidering (embroidery using a hoop to secure and tighten the fabric). This type of embroidery was popular for decorating clothing and household textiles with patterns of animals, plants, heraldry, and geometric shapes. The ease the stand provided for embroidering allowed for the activity to become an opportunity to socialize, especially among upper class women. The purchase of this object would continue this tradition as a wonderful talking point and add character to any room.

At this time in the Netherlands, post-impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh was born on March 30, 1853. Van Gogh lived a short and tragic life, as his talent and influence was not acknowledged until after his death in 1890. Although the artist created approximately 2,100 artworks in the last decade of his life, Van Gogh’s work did not sell and was not recognized in his lifetime. Today, his works are among the most expensive paintings to have ever sold.