European Decorative Arts and Sculpture Bodkin (Needle) Case Made in South Staffordshire, England, EuropePossibly made in Bilston, Europe c. 1760 Artist/maker unknown, English Enamel on copper with hand-painted decoration; gilded brass mounts Currently not on view 1975-140-39a,b The Richard P. Rosenau Collection, 1975 |
LabelThis case was used to store a sewing implement called a bodkin. Shaped like an oversized sewing needle with a blunt point and large eye, a bodkin is used to pull a drawstring through a fabric casing. This case is made of enamel on copper, a medium designed to rival those made of more expensive materials such as gold and porcelain. |
