Anon. Saving of Moses from the Water

An original 18th-century mixed media Saving of Moses from the Water.

An impressive 18th-century panel comprising silkwork and stumpwork 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-238).

This panel depicts the Finding of Moses from the Book of Exodus. The Pharaoh's daughter is shown at the discovery of the baby Moses amongst the bulrushes on the banks of the Nile.

The embroidery combines a number of skilful techniques, including chenille raised or stumpwork to the tree foliage and exquisite detail to the figures' clothing. 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: 40.5 x 53.5cm. Frame size: 46 x 58.5cm.