The bedsheet was embroidered by Anna Maria Radclyffe (1693-1723) to commemorate her husband, James, who was beheaded for treason in 1716. James was the third Earl of Derwentwater and a grandson of Charles II. He was executed aged 26 for his involvement in the first Jacobite insurrection. His story features in Sir Walter Scott's novel, Rob Roy.
The bedsheet is worked with an intricate floral design and a large heart-shaped wreath. The design frames the text: "The sheet OFF MY dear Lord's Bed in the wretched Tower of London February 1716 x Ann C of Darwent=Waters."
The severed head was given to his wife, who may have taken the hair for the embroidery.
WV, 22 March 2022