05/11/2021

Artlab’s Textiles team prepared an exquisite Turkish hanging from the collections of the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Textiles conservator hand sewing wall hangingKristin Phillips, Principal Textiles Conservator hand stitching Velcro to the top edge of the embroidered hanging.
Turkey, Commemorative hanging, depicting the founder of the Ottoman empire, Sultan Osman Gazi (r. 1299-1326), 1850-70, Istanbul or Bursa, Turkey, metallic thread, sequins on wool, cotton, and silk, 197.0 x 183.0 cm; Gift of Beverley Anderson, Emeritus Professor Anne R. Edwards, Joan Lyons, Peter and Pamela McKee, Dr Joe Verco AM through the Art Gallery of South Australia Foundation 20th Anniversary Collectors Club 2020, Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide.

The Turkish commemorative wall hanging made in the mid 1800’s, depicts the founder of the Ottoman dynasty, Sultan Osman Gazi. It is exceptionally well crafted and is made from a variety of brushed wool fabrics, similar to those used in military uniforms.

The brushed surface of the fabric is covered with small pieces of applique, embellished with silk and metallic thread embroidery, illuminating the fine detail and opulence of the hanging.

A Vast Emporium: Artistic exchange and innovation in a global age exhibition at the Art Gallery of SA, commenced in May 2021 and the hanging was a later addition to go on display, from November.

A custom made backing board, constructed in the workshop at the Art Gallery, was bought to Artlab so the conservator could prepare the hanging. After hand sewing Velcro to the fabric and board, the large embroidery was carefully attached to the support so it could be safely installed in the exhibition.

A Vast Emporium: Artistic exchange and innovation in a global age at the Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide, commenced May 2021.