CHARLES II NEEDLEWORK PICTURE, THIRD QUARTER 17TH CENTURY

Depicting scenes from the Book of Esther, worked in tent and other stitches, label to reverse inscribed W. Russell Button, Inc/995 Center Street, Douglas, Mich 49406, now in a modern wood and parcel-gilt frame.

W. Russell Button, Inc., Douglas, Michigan;
Sotheby's, New York, October 18, 2006, sale 8229, lot 178.

Colors and needlework are generally intact with some minor losses to needlework; some losses to foundation , the largest being to the tail of the fish at the lower left (approximately 1 cm). Browns have oxidized in areas to expose foundation beneath. Loss to upper left corner. Frame with some rubbing and wear. Please note that this needlework has not been examined out of its frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Illustrating Biblical stories with characters in contemporary dress was a highly popular genre in needlework between the 1620s and 1690. Designs were often inspired by the illustrated Biblical handbooks, such as Gerard de Jode's Thesaurus Sacarum Historiarum Veteris Testamenti.. which does include an image of Esther kneeling before King Ahasuerus similar to the present example, as also seen in lots 440, 449 and 471.