Embroidered Pin Ball Cover

Periodca. 1770 - 1800

MediumPlied silk thread on coarse linen

DimensionsDiameter: 3.38 in. (8.6 cm)

ClassificationsNeedlework

Credit LineGift of Mrs. J. Amory Haskell, 1934

Object number708.3

DescriptionA small circular embroidered panel, of coarsely-woven heavy linen, in plied silk thread in grass green, lilac, pink, and brick red. The panel is worked entirely in Queen stitch, depicting seven small stylized strawberries with green leaves, arranged in three rows of alternating two/three/two motifs. Rough edges of both linen and silk, as well as small areas of unfaded silk thread, are visible.
Curatorial RemarksThe shape of this small and fraying embroidered fragment hints at its original construction and appearance. During the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, women wore small spherical cushions dangling from the waistbands of their skirts, as both a practical tool and a decorative accessory. As many articles of clothing relied upon pins to provide closure, these pin balls kept the necessary fasteners close at hand. While some pin balls were made of plain silk, others were made to show off the maker's needlework skills, adding a bright and eyecatching bit of finery. This small circle was one half of a pin ball. Constructed over a sturdy linen ground, the two halves would have been embroidered on flat pieces of linen, then gathered, sewn together, and stuffed with wool. Pin balls were sometimes made as gifts for family members or friends. A silk ribbon band or, if the wearer's purse permitted an engraved silver hoop, encircled the stuffed ball and when fastened to a chain or length of ribbon, allowed it to be clipped or pinned to the wearer's waist. The original lavender color of a portion of the silk thread is visible, most likely covered by the band. The pin ball saw a significant amount of wear and tear. It was most likely taken apart after its useful life was over and kept as a memento. The pin ball's strawberry motifs were embroidered in Queen stitch. Also known as rococo stitch, it became popular in seventeenth century English embroidery and was particularly challenging to work.

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