BEAD WORK,TEA COSY AND MAT

This very Victorian ornate and elaborate tea cosy with matching trivet rarely seen in 21st century is hand embroidered with glass seed beads in a floral design with birds and butterflies. Purchased by the donor in an antique shop in Mosman Park, Western Australia in 1980s.

Afternoon tea was an important social occasion in late 19th century, and table accessories, handmade by the lady of the house, added glamour to the occasion and showcased the skills of the lady of the house. In the parlor, a room in the house especially for guests and visitors, was displayed the best of everything – furniture, furnishings and accessories.

(a) The 4 sided triangular shaped tea cosy, has a brightly coloured beaded floral design stitched onto black net.

One panel also has a peacock, a second has a bluebird and two others have a butterfly. The seams have a beaded edging. There is a beaded tassel at the top in blue & pink glass seed beads. The padded lining is covered in goldy coloured cotton fabric.

(b) The matching circular trivet, has a coloured floral beaded design stitched on black net, a beaded fringe. It has a cardboard lining covered in goldy coloured cotton fabric.

These appear to be for ‘show’ as the beaded trivet would not be practical for a hot china teapot.