Historical information

"The panel of needle weaving was taken from a remaining strip of a full length brown linen curtain. This was brought to Australia in the early years of the 20 th century but was possibly done much earlier. It is known to be of Russian workmanship and with a base of Russian drawn ground, round which was embroidered a primitive design showing several patterns of needle weaving in the detail. The central motif of two small animals, possibly bears, on either side of a mythical figure shows three designs of continuous border above and below the motifs is needle woven in a brighter coloured design. The donor was a member of the Guild who spent a considerable time in Great Britain, Western Europe and the Orient, including Russia, learning embroidery techniques at various schools of embroidery and bringing samples of local work back to Australia". Geraldine Amies (see Media)
This was used as inspiration for the "Inspired by the Past" Exhibition by Lorna Law.

Physical description

Part of a larger piece in a coarse natural linen design appears to be of mythological significance - showing some animals (bears?). The back ground is Russian drawn ground and design is in needle weaving and surface stitchery.