German Embroidered Silk Wall Hanging / Banner - Early 20th Century Crewelwork Panel

Antiques : Textiles, Linens

 

PLEASE DOUBLE-CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE AND VIEW FINE DETAIL. Exquisite, 1920s German hand embroidered wall hanging or banner; a commissioned piece that commemorates the founding(1916) and consecration (1925) of a regional, south-east Berlin food handlers association with their “Strive to Succeed…” motto featured on the back. The workmanship is simply meticulous and very skillfully executed employing a combination of stitches and using gilt, metal and silk threads on blue velvet and blue and cream taffeta grounds. On the front, is a richly worked, bold and colorful centerpiece –a detailed pair of gents' hands firmly locked together into a handshake and surmounted over a cluster of fruit (pineapples, grapes, peaches, apples….). The needlework is so fine that it resembles brush strokes adding contours and the illusion of a third dimension to the centerpiece. It was presumably a fruit handlers association and the fruit theme is extended to the borders in the form of fruit-filled cornucopias. Raised work creates a 3rd dimension on the lettering and metal thread tassels, trim and fringes further embellish the piece. There is an extraordinary amount of detail in this hanging –some of which was a challenge to convey in the images. It hangs on its original wooden rod with brass finials and is held into position with decorative brass studs. It even comes with its original hanging hooks.

Overall it is in superb condition. The colors, lettering, embellishments and embroidery are well preserved and in excellent condition. There is however slight deterioration of the cloth. It is worn and frayed in some places near the very bottom front which is really only visible upon close examination and there are a couple of small tears (one on the front and one on the back) which are visible. On the back is a slightly sun-faded area. That said, the damage is in general minor and there is no odor or significant staining and soiling. There are no repairs.

It measures 56” in length or 59” with the rod. Width is 39” or 55” with the rod.

Item ID: RL-EA001035