John Nelham was the son of Robert Nelham (d. 1654), who was also an embroidery designer and materials supplier. Robert Nelham bequeathed to his son Jhon: "the halfe of my books and prints and patterns which I do use for the drawing of workes... all my beames and lathes and working instruments ... which do appertain and belong to my worke house" (the other half was apparently reserved for his second, younger son).
At one time, John Nelham was associated with William Rutlish, King's Embroiderer to King Charles II. One of John Nelham's (signed) extant embroideries is included in the collection of Blair House, Perthshire.
See also Susannah and the Elders
Source: NEVISON, John L. (1982). 'John Nelham. Embroiderer', The Bulletin of the Needle and Bobbin Club, Vol. 65 (click here).
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