worked in cross-stitch and running stitch

B. C. Holland, Chicago

Silk embroidery on a dark blue and white cotton gingham ground. Much of the dark browns have oxidized and are now restitched. Minor scattered spot stains. Some losses generally in outer guard strips showing ground and also restitched. Stretched and mounted on linen.
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.

This finely worked embroidery which includes stylized figures, birds, and animals in its design is very closely related to the iconic Schürmann/Herrmann/Kirchheim example that has been revered by collectors for decades. For this example please see Ulrich Schürmann, Caucasian Rugs, London, 1964, pl. 138; Eberhart Herrmann, Seltene Orientteppiche, Vol. X, cover; Heinrich Kirchheim, et al., Orient Stars, pl. 42, then sold Rippon-Boswell, May 24, 1997, lot 103.  For another closely related embroidery , in a more square format, see Michael Franses, Textile Art of the Caucasus, London, 1996, pl. 2.  In the overall design scheme and coloring, these three embroideries are very similar; however, here there are fewer figures and the drawing of the leaves and hooks are more 'Caucasian.'  That is, the motifs are departing more from the Safavid Persian pictorial prototype.  For examples of Safavid and Safavid-inspired works see, Jennifer Wearden, "A Synthesis of Contrasts," Hali, issue 59, pls. 8, 9, 10 and an embroidery sold in these rooms, December 10, 1992, lot 7.