Expert: Irene Schwall - 1/7/2009

Question
QUESTION: "I cannot begin to imagine what this tool was used for, however the box that it was found in also contained beaded lace and knitting supplies.  Could this have been used for some sort of needlework?"

ANSWER: Hello Jennifer,
I can't say that I've ever seen a needlework tool like this.  But I will check my reference books and also ask other collectors to see if someone has run across something like this.
Question:  do the small holes running the length of the wood go completely through?  Can you please provide me with dimensions.
Thanks.
Irene

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Each wooden piece is approx. 14" long.  2 of the pieces have holes on either end that the other 2 pieces can slide into to create a square.  The small holes on all 4 pieces go all the way through.  On the 2 Pieces with larger holes on either end the small holes are about 3/8" apart.  On the other 2 pieces the holes are about 7/8" apart.

Answer
Hello Jennifer,
I should have thought of this before but my brain was not working earlier this morning - sorry.  On your first query with the photo I was not 'seeing' four separate boards just a photo showing 'various angles'.
What you have is an early embroidery or a tambour frame.  Your frame dates to the early 19th century and it is a lovely example.  The wood lengths with the large holes/slits would have been placed together to make the square and then the embroidery material would have been stitched on to the frame leaving a space between the frame and  material.  This way the fabric is supported and the design will not be stretched as it is stitched. The hands are free to work and the embroidery fabric does not get as soiled from being handled each time.
If you have a reference book titled the History of Needlework Tools and Accessories a similar frame is illustrated - see plate 151.
Regards,
Irene