DRG is actively conserving its collection for future generations to enjoy. This year Kristin at Artlab Australia has been working on a rare and fragile textile acquired by David Roche from the Dalva Brothers in New York, in 2007. This Louis XVI period embroidered waistcoat made in the 1780s required extensive stabilising treatment and a new mount for display. Kristin has been reducing staining, adding another support lining and silk grounds to larger areas of loss, as well as making copies of missing buttons.
The rich embroidery on this waistcoat depicting palm trees and monkeys are recorded in a preparatory design drawing known as ‘Les Macaques’, found in a pattern book at the Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs, in Lyon, France. Just one other waistcoat of this finished design is known; and it resides in Victoria and Albert Museum, London. This makes the waistcoat pretty special, and very deserving of conservation.
The conservation treatment costs $8000, plus the creation of a new bespoke frame for display in Fermoy House. We seek your help in raising money toward its conservation. Donations over $500 can be acknowledged on the credit line as well having the opportunity to view the work with Kristin, the textile conservator. All gifts over $2 are tax deductible.
Your contribution, large or small, will make a difference to saving this rare waistcoat, and will ensure many more people may marvel at its beauty for years to come. Thank you for your generosity. While we update our online donation page, please call us on 08 8267 3677 to make a donation or visit us in person.
