Fine Pair (2), Victorian Napoleon III French Needlework Face Screen Set, Bow Top Handles
I bought a collection of these fabulous French face screens, dating late 1700s through about c.1850, some in pairs, some singles - all art worthy of framed display. This is an original pair (2), are pre-Victorian, Louis-Philippe to Napoleon III (c.1820-70) needlework face screens, very good condition with hand embroidered figural art A Courting couple worked in wool and silk yarns in petit point and needlepoint stitches, a single stitch at a time. The gold metal stick/handles are cast with bow top, very nicely preserved and well-mounted. Not a hand fan, proper, they're hand-held fire screens. Face screens in Victorian times: These were used to provide visitors a hand-held protective screen so they could sit next to the warmth of hearth to visit, but would not get all blotched in the face by the direct heat of those large open fireplaces in Victorian mansions. Remember, makeup of that era had wax base, and it was also the case that not only cheeks would pink and blotch, but makeup migh