Not on display

Spectacle Case

1840-1860 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Straw marquetry was known as early as the 17th century, but it was most popular in the period 1780–1830 in France and Britain. The straw was split and flattened, then glued into place on thin paper on which the design had been drawn. This was then glued to a wooden carcase, which was usually covered first with a thicker paper. The maker could divide the straw into two, four or more strips, depending on the fineness needed for the design. Colour could be added to the surface with various varnishes, which also enhanced the glossy appearance of the marquetry. Straw marquetry was most suitable for small objects such as tea chests or work boxes but occasionally larger pieces of furniture were decorated in this way. Because straw work is very fragile, it is rare for pieces to survive in good condition.

Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Straw-work
Brief description
Spectacle case, veneered in straw marquetry, English, 1840-60
Physical description
Spectacle case of wood decorated on both sides with coloured straw work consisting of a floral pattern on a brown ground surrounded by a chequered border.
Dimensions
  • Height: 15.2cm
  • Width: 3.5cm
  • Depth: 1cm
Credit line
Given by Lady D. D'Oyley
Object history
Given to the V&A in 1927 by Lady D. D'Oyley [27/9591].
Summary
Straw marquetry was known as early as the 17th century, but it was most popular in the period 1780–1830 in France and Britain. The straw was split and flattened, then glued into place on thin paper on which the design had been drawn. This was then glued to a wooden carcase, which was usually covered first with a thicker paper. The maker could divide the straw into two, four or more strips, depending on the fineness needed for the design. Colour could be added to the surface with various varnishes, which also enhanced the glossy appearance of the marquetry. Straw marquetry was most suitable for small objects such as tea chests or work boxes but occasionally larger pieces of furniture were decorated in this way. Because straw work is very fragile, it is rare for pieces to survive in good condition.
Other number
27/9591 - RF number
Collection
Accession number
W.57-1927

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Record createdJune 24, 2009
Record URL
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