Elizabeth I: Ruler and Legend
Companion Exhibits

Exhibits running concurrently with
Elizabeth I: Ruler and Legend

Elizabethan-Style Needlework

Thimble Sweet Bag Embroidered by Vera Fye

As a complement to Elizabeth I: Ruler and Legend, an exhibit of Elizabethan-style needlework is featured in an adjacent display case. It includes an assortment of blackwork pieces stitched by Kathleen M. Olex, a collection of silk and metal-thread embroideries stitched by Vera S. Fye, and two satin boxes featuring stumpwork embroidery done by June Abel. The needleworkers are members of the Stan Hywet Needlework Guild (http://stanhywetneedleworkguild.com/), an independent needlework guild which meets at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron , Ohio . The display also includes a selection of needlework books illustrating historical Elizabethan embroidery.

Anne of Cleves Embroidered by Kathleen Olex

Blackwork became fashionable in England during the reign of Henry VIII and continuing throughout the sixteenth century. This type of embroidery was first done in black silk on white linen (hence the name “blackwork”). During the reign of Elizabeth I, blackwork was utilized for different styles of design. It was worked on dress and dress accessories as well as on a variety of household articles such as bed hangings and other soft furnishings.

Tudor Rose Embroidered by June Abel

The silk and metal-thread embroideries replicate the style of the intricate embroideries of the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods in England. The designs feature coiling vines encircling a wonderful variety of flowers, fruits, vegetables, and insects.

Stumpwork embroidery is a raised form of embroidery created on one background and transferred to a ground fabric. Three-dimensional effects are achieved through the use of padding, beads, wire, and needle-lace stitches.

Rare Books of the Elizabethan Era

At the top of the main staircase, in the hallway to the Elizabeth I: Ruler and Legend exhibit, is a display of books from the Grasselli Library special collections.