Not currently on display at the V&A

Patch

1963 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Embroidered patches can be designs applied to clothing by organisations to distinguish membership or rank, or individuals for art or expression. This particular embroidered patch, sold through the Beatles fan club in 1963, fits within both of these categories.

The patch was one of many lines of merchandise produced at the height of what is known as 'Beatlemania' in Britain. 'Beatlemania' was characterised by intense levels of hysteria demonstrated by fans both during the actual concerts played by the band and during the band's arrivals at different locations. By wearing the patch you would show that you were associated with the band, and with the phenomenon of 'Beatlemania'.


Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Machine embroidery on twill
Brief description
Machine-embroidered sew-on Beatles patch
Physical description
A black textile rectangular patch with the words The Beatles, and the first names of the band (George, Ringo, John and Paul) machine-embroidered in yellow over a red guitar, all inside an oval shape formed by a yellow line. The edges are overlock stitched with black thread, with slight loose threads at each corner.
Dimensions
  • Height: 10.3cm
  • Width: 7.2cm
Production typeMass produced
Marks and inscriptions
  • The Beatles
  • GeorGe
  • RiNGo
  • PauL
  • johN
Gallery label
The Beatles Fan Club merchandise 1963 Fan clubs have been a way for enthusiasts to connect with a band, actor or show for many years. Members receive newsletters or can buy merchandise unavailable elsewhere. The chance to purchase tickets before the general public is another reason for their popularity. Christmas record Printed paper and plastic Museum no. S.24:1, 2-2008 Patch Twill and cotton Museum no. S.23-2008(March 2009 - March 2014)
Production
Attribution note: Issued through fan club only
Subjects depicted
Summary
Embroidered patches can be designs applied to clothing by organisations to distinguish membership or rank, or individuals for art or expression. This particular embroidered patch, sold through the Beatles fan club in 1963, fits within both of these categories.

The patch was one of many lines of merchandise produced at the height of what is known as 'Beatlemania' in Britain. 'Beatlemania' was characterised by intense levels of hysteria demonstrated by fans both during the actual concerts played by the band and during the band's arrivals at different locations. By wearing the patch you would show that you were associated with the band, and with the phenomenon of 'Beatlemania'.
Collection
Accession number
S.23-2008

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdJuly 1, 2008
Record URL
Download as: JSON