-Chestnut- pillow c. 1910

This Chestnut Pillow was made with fabric and thread by an anonymous artist. The first thing that grabs me is the almost ghostly quality of the white fabric. Look at the way the shapes of the leaves and chestnuts are defined by these delicate, meandering lines of thread. You can almost feel the artist's hand guiding the needle, carefully outlining each form. And then there's the textural contrast between the smooth fabric and the raised, embroidered details. It's as if the artist is playing with our senses, inviting us to touch and explore the surface. The subtle, muted palette creates a serene and contemplative mood, like a quiet walk in the woods on a crisp autumn day. This piece reminds me a bit of the work of textile artist Anni Albers, who also explored the relationship between form, texture, and color in her woven tapestries. Ultimately, this pillow is a testament to the power of craft and the beauty of simple, everyday objects.