18th May, 2019 11:30 GMT/BST

Costume, Accessories & Textiles

 
  Lot 2083
 

2083

Late 18th Century/Early 19th Century Needlework Picture of the Duke of York, Dated 1794,...

Late 18th Century/Early 19th Century Needlework Picture of the Duke of York, Dated 1794, depicting the Duke riding a bay rearing horse, he is dressed in full military uniform with black hat, blue lapelled coat, leather boots and spurs, sword, worked in coloured silks on a brown wool base, embroidered name 'Joseph Gregory 21' to the left hand corner, all within a stitched border, 44cm by 46cm
 

Provenance: From the Estate of The Late Josephine Orskey 

Footnote: I would like to thank Dr V Anker for her historical assistance. 
1794 was a decisive year in the Flanders Campaign, in which the French defeat the British and her allies.  The actions of a British Commander, the Duke of York and Albany, are one of several inspirations behind the nursery rhyme, The Grand Old Duke of York.  There are several theories as to 'Joseph' and '21'. The number could refer to 1821, the year of George IV's coronation, despite acting as regent from 1811.  It could be Joseph's age himself, he could have been an invalid who did needlework to pass the time, or a prisoner who was encouraged to take up new skills, or a professional embroiderer himself.

Sold for £900
Estimated at £300 - £500


 

Auction: Costume, Accessories & Textiles, 18th May, 2019

Costume, Accessories & Textiles

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