Threads of Time: The Textile Treasures of Sudeley

Threads of Time - The Textile Treasures of Sudeley

Nearly 170 years ago Sudeley Castle was rescued from its ruined state and restored by the Dents and the Brocklehursts – two leading textiles firms at the time of the Industrial Revolution. The Dents’ reputation continues to this day as makers of fine gloves and the Brocklehursts ran a successful silk milling business in Macclesfield.

Textiles have continued to feature strongly in the life of the Castle – Emma Dent, the Victorian chatelaine of Sudeley, built a fine collection of lace and textiles from around the world. In early 2007 Lady Ashcombe re-discovered a number of items that had been stored away and forgotten about for over 30 years. The Castle launched Threads of Time – The Textile Treasures of Sudeley; an exhibition featuring a richly diverse sample of our textile heritage and already described as one of the finest collections in the country.

The exhibition is themed around floral inspirations and includes artistic and literary interpretations of the flora featured within the textiles. On display are examples of textile techniques spanning 400 years from a magnificent 17th century Stumpwork casket, delicate lace, whitework, costumes and furnishings to sumptuous silk wall hangings and a Sheldon tapestry.

Back by popular demand – Lace Demonstrations for 2010!

Sudeley will be featuring demonstrations by the Lace Society from Monday 6th July to Sunday 8th August inclusive, 10.30am-4pm daily. Visitors to the exhibition will be encouraged to try lacemaking for themselves on the ‘have-a-go’ pillow where the basics can be learnt in just a few minutes.

Find out more about the Lace Society at: www.thelacesociety.org.uk

Sudeley encourages visits from those studying historical textiles, restoration and traditional techniques. Please call for details of opportunities for group visits on 01242 602 308.