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Purse

early 14th century
Not on view
This embroidery illustrates either a popular story or a courtly pastime. A lady and gentleman stand beneath a tree; she cradles a small dog under her arm and he offers her a flower or ring. This scene is commonly represented on fourteenth-century ivory mirror backs. The bag may have been made by a professional embroiderer or by the woman who carried it, inasmuch as skill in fine needlework was considered essential for ladies.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Purse
  • Date: early 14th century
  • Culture: French
  • Medium: Silk, linen, gold leaf
  • Dimensions: Overall: 5 1/2 x 6in. (14 x 15.2cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Embroidered
  • Credit Line: Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964
  • Object Number: 64.101.1364
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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