European Decorative Arts and Sculpture Bodkin (Needle) Case with Tape Measure Made in England, EuropePossibly made in Birmingham, Europe c. 1770 Artist/maker unknown, English Enamel on copper with hand-painted decoration and traces of gilt decoration; metal mounts; silk tape
Currently not on view 1975-140-75a,b The Richard P. Rosenau Collection, 1975 |
LabelThis case was used to store a sewing implement called a bodkin. Shaped like an oversized sewing needle with a blunt point and large eye, a bodkin is used to pull a drawstring through a fabric casing. This case is made of enamel on copper, a medium designed to rival those made of more expensive materials such as gold and porcelain. |
