<b>Object Type</b><br>This settee seat cover is part of a set, with six chair covers. Textiles were an important aspect of 18th-century decoration, though few have survived in such good condition as this example. <br><br><b>Materials & Making</b><br>The embroidery was almost certainly worked at home, rather than in a professional workshop. Skill at needlework was considered an accomplishment in women. They could demonstrate their expertise by embroidering decorative yet functional items such as chair seats. Sometimes furniture was commissioned specifically to accommodate and display fine embroidery.<br><br><b>Design & Designing</b><br>It was not unusual for scenes from literature to be chosen as the subject for embroidery. If engraved illustrations were in public circulation, they could be copied directly or indirectly. The designs here have been adapted slightly from the original illustrations to add more visual interest. A blue and white vase of flowers has been added to the previously empty fireplace, and flame-stitch upholstery to the settee that was plain in the original print.