Cyprus Silk Cocoon Art Sampler Folk Art Embroidery Framed Wall Hanging 68cm

A striking and unusual piece of Cypriot folk art: a large framed sampler board worked with silk cocoons arranged in decorative patterns, with embroidered floral motifs and applied gilt detailing. Mid to late 20th century, in the traditional craft style of the Karpas Peninsula and rural Cypriot villages where sericulture was a domestic industry.

Silk cocoon work is a distinctive Cypriot folk craft in which the empty cocoons of the silkworm (Bombyx mori) are used as a sculptural medium, glued and arranged onto a backing to form flowers, fans, and decorative compositions. The natural ivory of the cocoons is often paired with embroidered foliage, gilt highlights and applied trims, producing a richly textured wall piece that catches and softens light.

This example measures 68 x 68cm overall in its existing frame, ready to hang. Condition is good with the work intact and presenting well; there is a small loss to the gilt as photographed but no significant damage to the cocoon arrangement itself. The piece displays beautifully and would suit a Mediterranean, eclectic or maximalist interior.

An unusual and increasingly sought-after example of vernacular Mediterranean folk art. Pieces of this type are rarely seen on the UK market and are usually sourced directly from Cyprus or from collectors of ethnographic textiles. Combine shipping available on multiple items. Collection from Nottingham also welcome.