The padded lid from and antique French box: it had been in use as a sewing box when it came to me (sourced by @MaisnBleuLin), however the words say "Bonne Année" (the second 'e' is damaged), which means Happy New Year, so perhaps it originally held bon-bons or some such gift.
The silk-over-cardboard box was so damaged, but the embroidery still so beautiful... I carefully disassembled the box and found the padding of the lid to be a mix of locks of raw sheep's wool and shreds of Oriental newsprint. I gently scrubbed the embroidered panel, dried it in the sun, and salvaged the clean fleece, still smelling faintly of lanolin. Next, I found a scrap of vintage plain cotton, cut it to size, and hand-stitched it to the back of this piece, holding the fleece in place. This also allowed me to repair and stabilize the braid edging. This whole then was hand-stitched to pretty sky blue silk from a vintage sari and then placed in this thrifted frame with the perfect matt.
The total measurements are 13.5" wide x 11.5". Signed by me, with provenance on the back.
"Bonne Année" Historic Preservation
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These products are lovingly handmade by me, Sabine MacWaters. I take their functionality and durability to heart and have every intention that they retain their structural integrity for many years of service to you. If you discover, at any time, a problem with your beautiful piece , please give me the opportunity to assist you with remedying the question. Thank you for your trust in my craftsmanship!
As this item is fragile, I will calculate the cost of packaging it securely and shipping it to you at the time of your purchase. PLEASE contact me directly to allow me to get your address and calculate this Before attempting to purchase it through the website to avoid being overcharged!