Textile Antiques has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Worked in silk and wool in cross stitch and petit point with three ho-ho birds perched in, and eating the fruit from, two flowering hibiscus trees, this vignette framed with a blue band and bordered with flowers, acanthus, and other foliage, all on a black ground.
The ho-ho bird, much appropriated in European decoration of the 18th century, derived ultimately from the Chinese fenghuang, the mythical bird that served as an emblem of the empress and symbol of high virtue and grace.
Textile Antiques has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Fine european textiles and tapestries of the period spanning the 15th century to the early 20th century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Textile Antiques Profile Page
An 18th Century French Needlework Chair Seat Cover
