This is a beautiful c 1840 length of velvet onto which was skillfully painted flowers, leaves, and vines in reds, greens, and browns. This was likely made at home by a young lady of some leisure and probably used to edge curtains or a rather spectacular dress.  There are four sets of flowers, leaves, and vines that are repeated along this textile. The piece has about a ¼” seam allowance on all sides which – having not been exposed to air and light while it was adorning a curtain or dress – still retains the original cream color of the velvet. The velvet in the exposed, theorem painted portion of this textile has toned over the last 180 or so years to a mellow honey color. Excluding the seam allowances, it is approximately 6’ (72”) in length and just under 5” in width. It is in extremely fine condition with no tears or damage whatsoever. There are a few small scattered areas of discoloration and foxing. The painting itself shows some mellowing of color in some areas with all painted decoration present and clearly visible.  This beautiful textile has been in my collection for a long time and I have not come across another in many years.