Cabinet with scenes from the Life of Joseph
Exemplary work
Well-educated women were encouraged to complete needlework panels, like the ones seen on this cabinet, using professionally assembled kits as a form of so-called useful recreation. The scenes are based on stories from scripture and the Bible and were intended to serve as instructional examples of ideal moral behavior. The box itself opens to reveal writing instruments, mirrors, scent bottles, and trays and drawers for personal effects.
Well-educated women were encouraged to complete needlework panels, like the ones seen on this cabinet, using professionally assembled kits as a form of so-called useful recreation. The scenes are based on stories from scripture and the Bible and were intended to serve as instructional examples of ideal moral behavior. The box itself opens to reveal writing instruments, mirrors, scent bottles, and trays and drawers for personal effects.
Artwork Details
- Title: Cabinet with scenes from the Life of Joseph
- Date: third quarter 17th century
- Culture: British
- Medium: Linen worked with silk thread; laid work, split, knot, satin and sheaf stitches; metal thread trim; wood frame; silk lining; turned wood feet
- Dimensions: Overall: 13 3/4 × 11 1/2 × 8 in. (34.9 × 29.2 × 20.3 cm)
- Classification: Textiles-Embroidered
- Credit Line: Purchase, Anonymous Gift, 1939
- Object Number: 39.13.3a–k
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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Multiple artists/makers
1769–71
Multiple artists/makers
1769–71
British
ca. 1698
William Vile
John Cobb
1760–61
British
1600–1620
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