Opus Anglicanum at the V&A

Last week I took myself off to town for the day. There were a couple of exhibitions I really wanted to see at the V&A, one was Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery. I love sewing and embroidery and this looked like a fantastic exhibition.

Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery

From the 12^th to the 15^th centuries, England enjoyed an international reputation for the quality of its luxury embroideries, often referred to as ‘Opus Anglicanum’ (English work). Made by professional craftspeople in the City of London and rich in their intricacy, they were sought after by kings, queens, popes and cardinals from across Europe.

I had never heard of this work before so wasn’t sure what to expect. I paid for my ticket and entered a series of dark rooms. On display were rare surviving examples of Opus Anglicanum alongside paintings, illuminated manuscripts, metalwork and stained glass. Many of the textiles were religious textiles as these were the main things that survived. They featured similar themes and motifs, stitched in opulent silk and gold and silver thread, often using particular types of stitches. These were sewn by artisans based in the City of London – medieval England’s creative hub.

This was a fascinating exhibition and I really enjoyed going round it by myself. I don’t often get to exhibitions so a few child-free hours were pretty special. I was able to look at the textiles and really examine the stitching. The items on display had survived so well, on some of them you could even see the original drawings beneath the stitching.

The exhibition was arranged by periods of time, starting at the 12th century. Some of the embroideries have not been seen in Britain since they were produced but it was clear when they were brought together that the themes or designs could only have originated at the same place. The exhibition covered the 12th-15th centuries and you could see how the textiles had been cut up and re-used during the Reformation; how the textiles developed through the Age of Chivalry; and even how corners were cut during the 15th century – with small pieces of embroidery almost sewn on to beautiful fabrics.

There was a lot to see and I found it really fascinating. I learned so much and loved the fact so many beautiful things had been made in our country and exported all over the world.

Opus Anglicanum: Masterpieces of English Medieval Embroidery is at the V&A until the 5th February, admission is by ticket and these can be booked online or bought on the day.