Pin cushions made as sentimental tokens date back to the 18 th century. During the 19 th century and early 20 th century cushions in various shapes became familiar work. World War I saw soldiers, who had to take care of their uniforms and thus required learning how to sew, adapt this art form and the popularity of the craft peaked. When hospitalized, with time on their hands, soldiers and sailors created these pin cushions, which were stuffed and sewn together then decorated. The crafty embellishments were fashioned from pins, beads, sequins, ribbon cloth, printed paper, etc.; and generally sent home as gifts. Because these were created by soldiers in the war, they are considered to be a form of trench art, although they were not necessarily made in the trenches.

“Merry Christmas” Pin Cushion, English, circa 1915

Price: $350, Approximate size: 7 ½”h x 7 ½”w x 2”

The heart was a common shape used by the makers of these pin cushions. Amongst the clusters and linear decoration of pinned glass beads, British flags adorn each side of the top of the heart. This particular piece contains a commemorative medal pinned down in the center, and ribbon reading “Merry Christmas to You.” A ribbon of wispy fringe was pinned and frames the heart, as well. It is in very good condition with some loosened and a few missing pins.

Anchor Pin Cushion, English, late 19 th century

Price: $575, Approximate size: 10½”h x 10”w x 2¾”

This is a rare anchor pin cushion, made of deep navy blue velvet, quite large in comparison to other pin cushions we have seen, and the decoration is outstanding. Centered on the cushion, between the “arms” of the anchor, is a lovely pink satin patch with a blue satin border, each outlined in pinned glass beads with silver sequins. Symmetrically on each arm is another pink satin circle and beads and sequins evenly dispersed. In the middle of the main shaft of the anchor is a lovely floral motif with linen petals and sewn gold beads, again surrounded by beads and silver sequins. A larger gold bead is sewn down in the center and sits in a tightly wrapped button in silk. Below that, floss wrapped with gold metallic thread span white beads, fanning over pink satin. Twists of string, thicker but with this same metallic wrap, spiral amongst blue, yellow and clear beads and sequins out along the base of the anchor. A filigree cast gold metal element adds a lovely embellishment to each side. The anchor is bordered by a trim with fuzzy hanging baubles. The anchor is in excellent condition and remains with its original box.

AMERICA'S LEADING SAMPLER AND NEEDLEWORK DEALER
936 Pine Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
215-627-7797 fax 215-627-8199

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