1840s Antique Velvet Pear Pin Cushion in Red and Ochre

A rare early 19th-century pear-shaped pin cushion, handmade from velvet in warm golden ochre with rich russet-red shading across the sides.

The pear has a wonderfully naturalistic form, with a firm, full body, visible hand-sewn panel seams and a short paper-covered stalk that appears to have a waxed or coated finish. The softly blended colouring gives the impression of a ripening pear and makes this a particularly striking piece of antique textile fruit.

This piece was acquired from an auction where it was catalogued as dating from the 1840s. Its simple handmade construction, sculptural shape and beautifully preserved colour make it a distinctive example of early sewing-room haberdashery.

A lovely collector’s piece for a display of antique pin cushions, sewing notions, textile fruit or early folk art.