Gloves

Physical description

This magnificant pair of early seventeenth-century gloves has been densely embroidered with motifs of roses, birds and wheat sheaves to create a richly textured surface. The spangles (sequins) worked into the lace would have trembled and sparkled in the light as the wearer moved.

Place of Origin

England, Great Britain (made)

Date

1600-1625 (made)

Artist/maker

Unknown (production)

Materials and Techniques

Leather and satin, embroidered with silk and metal thread, edged with silver-gilt bobbin lace and spangles

Dimensions

Height: 36 cm, Depth: 23 cm

Historical context note

The motif of roses, birds and wheat sheaves cannot be identified with any specific association. Although a Tudor symbol, the rose was such a favoured flower in Elizabethan and Jacobean textile and decorative design that very little can be read into its appearance. While the objects were not heraldic, they may have acted as personal devices. The tradition of symbolic images chosen for tournaments, also known as impresa, during the Elizabethan era carried over to the decoration of articles of adornment such as sleeves, gloves, earrings and pendants. Scenting articles of dress was standard practice. Gloves along with other items of clothing including stockings, shifts and shoes were perfumed with fragrances derived from animal sources such as ambergris, civet and musk, floral oils extracted from orange, jasmine, lily and other blossoms, as well as spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.

Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)

Hart & North, Historical Fashion, p.210

Exhibition History

Elizabeth (National Maritime Museum 01/05/2003-01/05/2003)

Materials

Silver; Silk; Leather; Satin; Sequins; Silver-gilt thread; Bobbin lace

Subjects depicted

Birds; Roses; Wheat

Categories

Royalty; Embroidery

Collection code

T&F