Friday, December 7, 2012

George Washington, a Woven Portrait

This woven portrait of George Washington was manufactured in England by the Crossley Carpet Co. in mid 19th century.  Crossley carpets covered  important floors in castles, houses, palaces and public buildings.  Fearing he was running out of floors, Mr. Crossley announced he wanted to cover walls as well, and began to manufacture carpet tiles to frame and hang on walls.  Portraits of shepherds, gardening girls and celebrities became available, all woven like carpets.  This Washington image was created to coincide with the centenary celebration of 1876.    20" x 30".   $1200.