Design Card

Date

1875-1922

Level of description

Item

Extent and medium

Dimensions: 153mm X 245mm

Creator

Royal School of Needlework: Created by the Royal School of Art Needlework as miniaturised versions of designs. Original designs were miniaturised and either traced or copied onto 'Design Cards' which were sent out to clients for next day approval. This was part of the work of the 'Painting Room' sometimes referred to as the Paintroom, the department responsible for all design and draftsmanship.

Scope and content

Design Card recording a design possibly for an embroidered quilt cover. The design has a border with various trailing flowers, leaves and fruits (including oranges, lemons, grapes and pomegranates) with a swag at the bottom, and a bow in the corner. The main design shows a regular pattern of nine separate, small bunches of flowers or fruits tied with a ribbon bow including cornflowers, oranges carnations and daffodils. The ribbons and floral swags suggest some inspiration from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Pencil on card.

Transcription

The card is printed 'Royal School of Art Needlework, Exhibition Road, London S.W.' at the top, and 'It is respectfully requested that designs sent for selection be not kept more than ONE CLEAR DAY and to prevent damage in the post should be returned in the cards sent herewith. It is found necessary to make a charge for replacing designs returned in a damaged condition' at the bottom

Reference code

D1/054
© Royal School of Needlework