ADVENT CUSHION COVER WITH STAGS
Cretan embroidered cushion cover (with stags)
This brightly-coloured cushion cover or wall hanging is bustling with dense embroidery. In the intricate scene of intertwined flowers, figures and creatures, you can spot stags and various birds. The vivid red and gold silk stitching makes it look very festive.
But this family heirloom cushion cover from Crete started off its life in a different guise around 300 years ago. It was originally an upcycled dress which was hand-made for a special occasion, most likely a wedding. This Cretan frock would have been made from linen and silk by local villagers and embroidered using 10 or 11 different colours.
The opulent flowers in the design are reminiscent of Turkish gardens, featuring carnations, daisies, roses and honeysuckle.
The original dress would have been handed down through generations of Cretan families. As it became too worn, pieces were stitched together into the opulent cushion cover you see here, with the floral vine border added to frame the embroidery and keep as an heirloom.
Listen to its story in the Ashmolean Secrets podcast
Upcycling and Glad Rags
Embroidered cushion cover
Flax, silk, Cretan feather, herringbone, chain
c. 1701-1900
52 x 91 cm
EA2004.6
Not on display
