This item has SOLD*** LARGE Antique French Silk Eccesiastic Stole with Gilt Metallic Stumpwork Embroidery

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***This item has sold.*** An absolutely exquisite textile, it still retains the original gilded brass clasps and chain (these are most often removed and sold individually before the textile ever makes it to the antiques market). It originates from France and dates towards 1900.

The pale creme silk fabric has a sumptuous pattern of starbursts, flowers, arabesques and rosettes. It is the perfect background for the fine gilt stumpwork. At either end of the stole is a large floral motif (12" x 12"). The 3-D quality of the embroidery (padding is added underneath each shape, then embroidery stitches cover it in a long straight and tightly stitched pattern) seems to jump from the silk background. The flower measures 2" x 3". Arabesques, tendrils and leaves float across the field; the composition is simply lovely.

At the center back is a very large design, measuring 24" across and 15" high. It repeats the pattern of gilt stumpwork from the ends; two festoons which meet together at the center. Each flower was worked with individual petals, giving a layered depth that is very realistic. The centers of the flowers are filled with gilt metallic coils. Rich red embroidery thread is used on the center vein of the leaves and as outlines to the petals. Floating in the center is the Christogram, "IHS" stumpwork medallion (with cross rising from the center). The center of the cross is ornamented with on gilded brass half globe). The edge of the entire stole is finished with 1/2" metallic braid. At either end is a 1 3/4" long gilt metallic bouillon fringe.

The back of the stole is lined with red cotton (some spots and slight stains typical with use). It has two rectangular pockets which begin at the clasp and hook on either side. The clasps are in a rosette shape with a central Maltese cross. The original chain is attached.

The entire stole measures: 50" long and 21" wide. It is in very good antique condition: Fraying to the silk at the point of clasp attachment (where the weight of the stole would have pulled at the threads of the fabric). Some slight darkening to the silk, slight few threads sticking out from stumpwork embroidery (typical of age and use; the end of the work often makes it's way out from the stitching).

It is a magnificent textile, the large motifs and the use of layered embroidery give it a very regal countenance.




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