I’ve been holding on to this stunning 19th century string cushion for months but I’ve got to let it go. It is made like a Pennsylvania German string ball but in an almost-square form and all in silk. Silk threads are wrapped around semi-hard ribs (probably string or small rope) in concentric circles. The pillow or cushion is hard stuffed. Edges are wrapped with red silk and each corner has a big silk thread tassel. The silk edging has some splitting and has faded with age, but the silk threads are unbroken, show no wear and are vibrant colors of red, green, gold, brown, grey and tan. The beautiful condition makes me think that it must have been hidden away in a drawer for most of its life. It measures 4 ¾” x 5 1/8” x 3 ½” thick.

Circa 1820.

(#5469)      Sale Pending