Purse with scenes from the story of Patient Griselda
This embroidered scene depicts the popular medieval tale of Griselda, a poor maiden who was tested long and cruelly by her noble husband and thus exemplifies ideal Christian patience. The story appeared in various forms, the best known of which is "The Clerk’s Tale" in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. The needlework may have been made professionally, or by its owner, inasmuch as needlework was considered an essential part of a woman’s education.
Artwork Details
- Title: Purse with scenes from the story of Patient Griselda
- Date: 14th century
- Culture: French
- Medium: Silk and metal thread on canvas
- Dimensions: Overall: 6 x 5 5/8in. (15.2 x 14.3cm)
- Classification: Textiles-Embroidered
- Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Edward S. Harkness, 1927
- Object Number: 27.48.2
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
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