Cyprian redwork is a form of a counted thread embroidery (metritá; xombliastá), which was worked in dark red silk on a fine, white linen ground (later replaced with a cotton ground). The embroideries were worked in a variety of stitches, including various forms of cross stitch, double running stitch (Holbein stitch) and satin stitch.
This type of embroidery was often used to decorate the borders of bed sheets and covers. The borders were frequently decorated with spiral designs of branches with flowers or fruit, which gives the impression of linear ornamentation. They are also decorated with linked ‘S’ scrolls ending in stylised vine leaves.
See also the TRC Needles entry on Cyprian embroidery.
Sources:
- JOHNSON, Pauline (1972). A Guide to Greek Island Embroidery, London: Victoria and Albert Museum/HMSO, p. 31.
- POLYCHRONIADIS, Helen (1980). Greek Embroideries, Athens: Benaki Museum, p. 28.
V&A online catalogue (retrieved 6 July 2016).
GVE