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
Repeated floral design for embroidery recorded on a Design Card. The design incorporates two types of flowers (carnation/possibly a stylised acanthus) with scrolling leaves. It is characteristic of the Arts and Crafts Movement and shows the influence of historic embroidery and textile designs.
The Design Card needs to be turned on its side for the correct orientation and has a border with a small geometric pattern at the bottom. It would have been suitable for an object with a large surface area like a coverlet or a curtain.
The Design Card needs to be turned on its side for the correct orientation and has a border with a small geometric pattern at the bottom. It would have been suitable for an object with a large surface area like a coverlet or a curtain.
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
D1/061
© Royal School of Needlework