Pillow c. 1937

Florence Huston crafted this pillow, its date unknown, using a combination of black fabric and colorful embroidery. The choice of black as a background really makes the floral embroidery pop, doesn't it? Think about the texture of the velvet – how it absorbs light, giving the pillow a sense of depth. Then, consider the meticulous work of the embroidery, each stitch carefully placed to create the delicate petals and leaves of the hollyhocks. Embroidery like this was traditionally seen as women's work, a domestic craft rather than high art. But look closer: the skill and artistry are undeniable. The contrast between the dark velvet and the vibrant flowers is striking. It invites us to think about the time and labor involved in its making, and how that labor was once valued – or undervalued. Today, we can appreciate the craftsmanship and recognize the cultural significance of pieces like this, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.