Ahoy there, Mateys! – Part 1

Often, when we think of textiles, we think of fashion or women’s handwork. But in many cultures, it is the men who are the master weavers, dyers, block printers, and high-end tailors. So this two-part post is dedicated to the gentlemen! Just for you, I have selected some truly male-oriented textiles, and although not necessarily made by men, they are worn and prized by them. Sad to say, many of these textiles are from war and conquest, a field almost completely dominated by men until the 21st century. Anchors aweigh!

A True Family Treasure

This World War I Doughboy uniform was made for my client’s father when he was a wee one in 1917, by his mother, so that he would look just like his papa who was serving in Europe. It is a lovingly made, exact replica of a soldier’s uniform, just smaller in size. Sweet!

Perry’s Victory on Lake Erie, 1813

Made of printed cotton in 1913, this banner was printed to celebrate Perry’s heroic role in the War of 1812. And there’s a beer too!
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Erin Go Bragh Standard

This battalion flag came from my client’s great grandfather who fought with the Irish Battalion, Tennessee, during the Civil War. Our work involved flattening, extensive cleaning, flattening, full lining and fill for all the holes. Then we added an overlay of protective netting and conservation mounting.
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Commemorative Banner of the Great White Fleet 1907-1909

This large banner made of a composite ‘textile,’ was manufactured in Japan as a souvenir for American sailors in port. It cost about $30. Constructed with gold wrapped thread embroidery, the work features a very ‘oriental’ styled eagle, silk satin embroidery, paper backing and gold couched surface work. The banner features a painting of the fleet entering Tokyo Harbor (with Mount Fuji behind), images of President Theodore Roosevelt (center), flanked by Admirals Sperry (right) and Evans (left), and a sailor encircled in an embroidered life ring (below). Flanking the sailor are gunner’s mate crossed cannons, and cannon balls. The whole kit and caboodle in one textile, ready for framing!
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