Antique Victorian beaded embroidery, truly exquisite and fine! Subject is the loveliest young woman, with jewels adorning her long plaited hair, as well as her neck and wrist. Beautiful and dreamy-looking, and slightly exotic - a gypsy perhaps? In any case, so hypnotic, you could easily gaze at her all day.
The embroidery proper measures 7 x 9.5 inches, with the fringe adding another couple of inches. The side silk tassels are about 7 inches long.
The embroidery itself is in very good condition, a little faded, with just a couple of missing beads, and some light soiling. It is strong, and without any holes. The embroidered panel has been sewn to a stiff, silk-covered fabric - the silk covering is falling apart (see last photos). Also, the silk trim along the top seems reinforced by a couple of newer stitches (last photo). But while the back is not in excellent condition, the front looks wonderful.
A compelling and gorgeous piece.

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