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18th Century Italian Monastic Straw Embroidery of St. Charles Borromeo in Original Giltwood Frame
An exceptional and exceedingly rare 18th-century Italian monastic straw embroidery (straw mosaic) depicting St. Charles Borromeo kneeling in prayer before the Crucified Christ. This remarkable devotional artwork is meticulously handcrafted from hundreds of individually cut and laid straw elements, creating extraordinary depth, light, and detail. The figure of Christ is finely hand-painted, enhancing the spiritual intensity of the composition.
Early straw needlework of this quality and scale is seldom encountered. Unlike the more common 19th-century examples, 18th-century monastic straw embroideries are exceptionally scarce and highly sought after by collectors of ecclesiastical art and early European decorative arts.
The artwork remains housed in its original hand-carved giltwood frame, further enhancing its authenticity and historical significance. A museum-worthy example of monastic craftsmanship and religious devotion.
Condition: Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear. The straw work is beautifully preserved, and the original giltwood frame displays minor wear consistent with over 200 years of age.
Dimensions: 16” H × 13.75” W.
