Early 18th Century Italian Silk on Silk Embroidery 252 x 300cm / 8'6" x 9'10"

Exceptional embroidery from Northern Italy, handstitched circa 1720, it is a miracle survivor. Brightly coloured silks are embroidered onto a golden yellow silk background in the Rococo style. It is a masterclass in over the top style and workmanship. A small central panel features a hunter and a stag in a rugged setting, nominally the purpose of the picture and yet all around is this wild foliage of flowering vines and stems, with various birds in a sumptuous extravaganza. It is quite incredible to behold and a unique piece. No other silk has survived from this period, to my knowledge, in such great condition.