Posted 11 years ago
oldiehopef…
(1 item)
I was hoping someone might be able to identify what this is. Something my father had in his attic. Found when he passed away. Some type of framed tapestry. Must have looked nice when it was new, but has a lot of damage with thread weave unraveled in areas. Can anyone tell me anything about it? Does the design with the eagle and flags give a clue as to when it was made? The eagle has a glass eye it appears. Thanks for any help or clues as to where I can go to figure this out.
It is oriental embroidery that dates from the late 19th/ early 20th century. They were a popular souvenir item among sailors.
scott
Here is an example from my collection that I have posted on here:
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/25108-oriental-souvenir-embroidery-with-flags
scott
Thank you Scott! That's a start. Mine is 30 x 24. Do you think it's worth anything with the tread damage? Yours looks to be in much better shape. My eagle looks to have a glass like eye. Do you know if that is actually glass? Is that typical?
These are very desirable among collectors. They come in various sizes-- I have several that are closer to yours in size.
Condition determines value. Thread issues will detract from value, but yours looks to be repairable. These fade easily over time when exposed to sunlight, which really detracts from appearance and value.
The eyes are typical, most if not all in my collection are similar.
For ones your size, I usually see them sell in the $150- $400 range. I would put yours at the lower end of the range ($150- $225) due to its damage.
Be aware, these will sometimes be offered as Civil War patriotic pieces and even advertised as a Civil War Flag remnants. THEY ARE NOT! As such, I have seen uninformed collectors pay HUGE prices for them.
scott
Thanks so much Scott. This site is a great resource. Glad I stumbled on it. Thanks again!
I added 3 more photos to show the damage a little more closely. As you can see, in addition to the thread damage in the red, white, and blue flag area, there are also torn areas in the black silk sections. Also, I was looking for any markings on the back and found those letters GILT. Do you have any idea what this means? It's on the left vertical section of the frame (right side if you're looking at the back).
Close ups show a little more damage than I saw at first-- it looks like the back may be extensively damaged. It may be worthwhile to look at archival or preservation framing if you plan to keep it.
Sadly, it probably wouldn't be a good investment, if you plan on selling some day.
By the way "Gilt" is a reference to the gilt (gold) frame.
scott
Thank you Scott. Yes, the damage is pretty significant unfortunately. As for the "Gilt".....I feel "guilty" that I didn't figure that one out on my own!
Thanks again.