Anon. The Presentation of Christ

An original 18th-century mixed media The Presentation of Christ.

An impressive 18th-century panel comprising silkwork embroidery on a silk ground with additional painting in watercolour. This is one of a pair of silkwork embroideries of Biblical scenes from the Old Testament that we have for sale (see JZ-239).

This panel depicts the Presentation of Christ at the Temple from the gospel of Luke. Mary is seen holding the Infant Jesus before Simeon at the temple in Jerusalem, with Joseph waiting with his animals at the temple entrance.

The embroidery combines a number of skilful techniques, with the detail to the figures' clothing being particularly exquisite. The scene is given depth by the use of watercolour to sketch in the background elements.

Exquisite silkwork embroideries were particularly popular in Britain in the late 18th and early 19th century, and are now considered the highest quality needlework art of the period. Silk or chenille thread was used to embroider a design onto silk fabric. Expensive to produce, the detailed needlework required considerable expertise. Silkworks would often be executed by young genteel women who had progressed in skill from producing samplers in childhood. Subjects would often include mourning pieces and classical, biblical or literary scenes, as well as floral still lifes.

Presented in a smart reproduction ebony-and-gold-coloured frame.

Artwork size: 43 x 52cm. Frame size: 48 x 57cm.