Needlework has always been an important art form of England. In
the 17th century, a unique style of raised work embroidery was
developed and, in its most elaborate form, was used to
pictorially embellish decorative boxes used to store one's
personal treasures. These embroidered containers were considered
so important that cabinet makers were commissioned to create
protective carrying cases so they could be easily and safely
moved while traveling. This piece, one of the finest of its
kind, tells the Old Testament story of Queen Esther, whose
intelligence and diplomacy saved her people from persecution.
The box was added to the institute's collection on the occasion
of Mary Ann Butterfield's retirement to honor her work as the
museum's textile conservator.