Antique Needlepoint

Textiles touch many aspects of our lives. This may explain why they are not considered an art form in the same way as painting or sculpture. Other cultures tend to hold craftsmen and artists in equal esteem. In Medieval Europe tapestries and the Opus Anglican were held in the highest regard.

Unlike weaving which evolved into an industry, needlepoint was little affected by technology, and is therefore very difficult to reproduce en mass.
Thus the craft of producing needlepoint in medieval Europe became largely the preserve of women. The two are intrinsically linked, needlepoint and embroidery reflect social and artistic trends, religious and political changes, as seen through the eyes of women. Their work provides us with a fascinating insight into their life and times.

The art of collecting Antique Needlepoint is selection, there still remains a wealth of Antique Needlepoint available, we are fortunate to have access to specialist collection, museums and stores, as well as a quantity of literature. The relatively low cost of Antique Needlepoint compared to other arts and antiques makes them readily available to all. Antique Needlepoint is both evocative and absorbing to collect.