Valance c. 18th century

This valance of unknown date and maker is finely wrought from linen and silk, using sophisticated embroidery techniques. The ground is a plain weave of linen, providing a stable base for the colorful silk threads. Notice the intricate details of the floral and avian motifs, which required painstaking labor. The texture and sheen of the silk threads give a luxurious feel to the piece. The maker expertly employed a variety of stitches to create depth and dimension, including satin stitch for smooth surfaces and stem stitch for delicate outlines. Textiles like this were not simply decorative, but showed one’s financial standing. Embroidery was a skill taught to women, but pieces like this represent a significant investment of time, which speaks to a certain degree of financial comfort enjoyed by those who made and owned it. Looking closely at the materials, techniques, and social context deepens our appreciation for the work. It reminds us that "craft" is never separate from "art," but deeply embedded within it.