How were pole screens used?

Pole screens were placed near fireplaces in formal rooms to protect a lady's face from the intense radiant heat of the hearth. The adjustable screen panel could be raised or lowered along the wooden shaft as needed. These pieces combined practical utility with interior decoration, allowing makers to showcase fine needlework mounted within mahogany or rosewood frames.

What is a suzani used for?

Suzanis were traditionally created in Central Asia as part of a bride's dowry, stitched collaboratively by family members. They functioned as wall hangings, bed covers, or ceremonial coverings within nomadic and village homes. Today, these embroidered textiles are typically displayed as wall art to highlight their intricate silk designs and regional motifs.

How do I care for antique textiles?

Antique embroideries require protection from direct sunlight to prevent the fading of natural silk and wool threads. Keeping them away from excessive moisture and fluctuating humidity preserves the integrity of the fabric and foundation. Framed panels under glass benefit from sealed backs, while wall hangings benefit from weight-distributed hanging systems that avoid stressing the old material.

How can I tell the period?

Dating relies on examining the combination of the support structure, the wood type, and the needlework style. Georgian and William IV pieces often feature mahogany or rosewood frames with classical proportions, whereas Victorian examples tend toward heavier carving or rosewood veneer. The specific stitches, colour palettes, and regional motifs also offer clear indicators of whether a piece originates from seventeenth-century Europe or nineteenth-century Central Asia.

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Antique Embroidered Tapestry

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When you search for antique embroidered tapestry, you are looking at centuries of needlework applied to wall hangings, pole screens, and framed panels.