Online: Opus Anglicanum 'Matilda'

Opus Anglicanum literally means English Work. This was the name for a period of English embroidery that was renowned throughout Europe and beyond. It only came to an end when the Black Death swept across the world, wiping out most of the English embroiderers skilled in this technique and leaving the way open for the quicker, and therefore cheaper, techniques of tapestry shading and surface couching of

metal threads from abroad to take precedence. 

 

Opus Anglicanum made use of split stitch in lustrous silk floss along with underside couching worked in metal passing threads. ‘Matilda’ will start you off in this beautiful technique. The inspiration for the face of Matilda came from the Steeple Aston cope, where a lady can be seen riding on a dragon. This cope was worked between 1330-40 in silver threads and coloured silk floss. Named after Steeple Aston in Oxfordshire, from where it originally came, it is now on loan to the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

 

Suitable for all levels.

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The class kit will include everything you require to complete the project. You will need a 8" hoop and fine embroidery scissors and may find a magnifier and lamp useful.

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