Pillow c. 19th century

This 19th-century embroidered pillow, currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, features a bold, colorful design. The central motif depicts two stylized red deer with elaborate antlers, framed by geometric patterns, and a repeating border of birds, creating a balanced and symmetrical composition. The intricate stitchwork, characteristic of traditional folk art, showcases a vibrant palette of reds, greens, blues, and yellows, and the overall design suggests a connection to Scandinavian folk traditions.