European Decorative Arts and Sculpture Bodkin (Needle) Case with Lid in the Form of a Female Bust Made in South Staffordshire, England, EuropePossibly made in Bilston, England, Europe c. 1765 Artist/maker unknown, English Enamel on copper with hand-painted and gilt decoration; engine-turned brass mounts Currently not on view 1975-140-145a,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 an enamel on copper copy of one made in porcelain at the Chelsea porcelain factory, London. Enamel on copper is a medium designed to rival those made of more expensive materials such as gold and porcelain. |
