Tool - Ivory needle case, Needle case, 19th century

Historical information

English ivory needlecase made when sewing needles when needles were expensiv - needle work accessory to demonstrate owner's wealth

Significance

This style of motifs was popular for carved needlework accessories in 19th century. Dots and circles are created by pressing hot coloured wax into dots and circles carved into the ivory.

Physical description

Cylindrical ivory needlecase with incised pattern of black circles and dots. Both ends have seven bands on the tapered ends. unscrews near the middle.

Inscriptions & markings

Decorative style of black dots and circles now known as 'madras work' or 'dot and circle decoration.

Subjects

References

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