Bag c. 19th century

This small knitted bag, by an anonymous maker, is a compelling demonstration of skill and artistry. Note the density of the knitting, and the fineness of the yarn used to create this scene of birds and flowers. The inherent qualities of wool – its warmth, flexibility, and capacity to hold dye – are put to good use here. The anonymous maker has knitted a colorful scene by hand, stitch by stitch, and row by row. This process would have taken countless hours and unwavering attention to detail. But the bag also speaks to broader social issues of labor and consumption. Knitting was a common pastime for women of the era, yet examples like this are not always considered as ‘high art.’ By focusing on the artistry and skill involved, we can challenge conventional distinctions between craft and fine art, recognizing the value and significance of handmade objects in our world.