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Bedcover

Greek Islands
18th–19th century
Object Place: Greece, Skyros, Northern Sporades

Medium/Technique Linen plain weave, embroidered with silk
Dimensions Overall: 161 x 245cm (63 3/8 x 96 7/16in.)
Credit Line Gift in the name of Abby L. Tyler
Accession Number33.23
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsTextiles

DescriptionThree panels of linen worked in running, double running, darning, and cross stitches in polychrome silk threads and joined together with striped yellow and blue silk ribbon. Border design of large fantastical, peacock-like birds and jars of flowers (tulips, carnations etc.) on which small birds are perched. Center floral medallion flanked by stylized birds and flowers, and four men smoking pipes, worked in pastel colors (center panel probably added later). Finished at ends with buttonhole stitch in green silk, and small points of needle lace stitch with red silk.
ProvenanceCharles Hitchcock Tyler (b. 1863 - d. 1931), Boston [see note 1]; 1933, given by Mr. Tyler's estate to the MFA. (Accession Date: February 2, 1933)

NOTES:
[1] Karl Singer, the executor of the Tyler estate, came across MFA accession nos. 33.22 and 33.23 while cleaning out Mr. Tyler's home. Attached to them was a note from Mrs. Tyler saying that they were intended for the MFA. They were subsequently given in Abby L. Tyler's name.