Historical information

Variably described as mantel hangings, pelmets or valances, these became a common form of Victorian interior decoration in the second half of the 19th century. The hanging uses arrasene embroidery which was introduced for artistic embroidery c.1883. Arrasene embroidery was a variation of chenille embroidery and was mainly used for curtain borders, mantel hangings and screens. When used to embroider flowers on velvet or plush, it was sewn upon the surface without being ‘drawn through’. Madonna lilies, irises, daffodils and narcissi were commonly used in designs of mantel hangings.

Physical description

Velvet mantel hanging embroidered with chenille thread. The scalloped edge of the pelmet is bordered by multicoloured silk cording. This example was owned by Netty Cornish of 15 Peel Street, Kew, and donated by her daughter, Mrs F Plumridge in 1980. The embroidered flowers in this example include narcissi and roses.