A Pair of Silkwork ‘Woolies’

A rare and interesting pair of sailors’ woolwork pictures done in Chinese silks and when the maker was at anchor in Chinese waters; the silk being a favourite commodity for western merchants to ship back to the west, the frames made for these works and of a popular type often referred to as ‘Chinese Chippendale’ and finished in a plum coloured lacquer with a gilt sight edge.

One work depicts a top-sail schooner flying the flag of Brazil, the schooner a type of sea-craft favoured by American traders for their speed, agility, and ability to be sailed by a smaller crew. They played a crucial role in American trade, privateering, and defense.
The second work depicts a steam-assisted barque flying a red ensign probably denoting a ship of the Royal Navy.

Both works are in excellent condition, presumably having not been hung in a position subject to strong light. The silk remains in good order and they retain an excellent level of colour.

The back boards of both pictures show ghosting from news papers of the Boston Herald that were previously pasted to the reverse in order to close the framing.

Framed dimensions:22 inches x 15.5 inches. Made circa 1865.