Saturday, October 1, 2011

Work In Progress

Just a quick post today to show the progress on my blackwork piece. I still have so much more to stitch because this is a huge piece. I am having fun though!

Just a little bit of trivia about blackwork. I did a little research because I just find the design style so interesting. It is most readily identified with Elizabethan era costume. It is widely believed that it was introduced to England by Catherine of Aragon, first wife of King Henry VIII and daughter of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. Catherine was an accomplished embroideress and is believed to have embroidered several of King Henry's shirts and tunics. She was also said to be a fashion icon of her time, and may have inspired the fashion of the day featuring blackwork and lacework.

Blackwork apparently originated in Spain (and is often called Spanishwork.) There is a influence of the Moors on the designs, which are geometric and scrolling in nature.

4 comments:

Cari said...

That is looking so lovely!

ruco said...

Patti,
You are doing a beautiful job as you always do. I like that you did some reference into the history. That will make you enjoy the piece that much more.
I enjoy following your progress on the new house. That is so exciting.
Keep up the good work.
Ruth

Cathy said...

Your blackwork is so pretty. It inspires me to try doing some! I hope you're feeling better.
Cathy

Cindy said...

Your piece looks wonderful and thanks for the history lesson, i always love learning more....am going to enjoy following the progress on this one :D