Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth’s crewel work bed hangings are some of the most iconic and well-loved pieces held by Gawthorpe Textiles Collection.
Following an assessment in 2017, the bedspread was removed from display to undergo conservation. The work carried out has helped to stabilise the piece for the future by providing additional support for the linen fabric which had weakened over time. Additional work included cleaning areas of discolouration and securing loose stitching.
These highly decorative pieces were made to adorn a Jacobean bed, given to Rachel as a 21stbirthday present.
The full set consists of bed hangings, bedspread, window curtains, chair seat covers and a fire screen. The pieces are worked in wool on a cotton, linen weave. The design is based on Jacobean crewel work, influenced by Indian imported fabrics featuring exotic plants and flowers, with the addition of native English insects and animals.
Rachel began her designs in 1908 and the set took a total of 5 years to complete. Work was interrupted by the First World War, however at the end of the war on 11 November 1918, the date and a palm tree symbolising victory were added to the bed pelmet. This was particularly poignant as Rachel lost her two brothers to the war. The pelmet has also been returned to the bed for the 2018 season to mark the 100thanniversary of the end of the war.
