This smaller bag is constructed from C19th French linen. The textile’s virid colour is the result of multiple dips in dyeing vats of indigo and weld; and redolent of a hedgerow in late spring.
The bag’s front flap is adorned with a block print - imagined by artist maker, Janet Tristram - magically fusing flora with the firmament. The print - in linseed-based Old gold - contrasts beautifully with the bag’s dark tones.
The image on the flap is rooted in astrological herbalism. It depicts Horehound within the solid orb of Mercury (also known as ‘The Messenger’), its ruling planet - perhaps we should call this last bag a messenger bag? Culpeper describes the plant as being found in ‘waste green places’ and as having ‘crumpled rough leaves of a sullen hoary green colour, of a reasonable good scent, but a very bitter taste’. The image is underscored by a block-printed ribbon carrying the name of both plant and planet. A pair of antique leather straps in dark brown are hand-stitched to the flap, to create weight, balance and beauty.
The bag’s front panel, rear panel, side panels and bottom panel are unprinted. All edges are faced with a rolled, hand-stitched hem. Open the flap, and a block-printed, hand-sewn editioning patch reveals itself, with numerals in Old gold. It reads: VII of VII.
Inside, there is a useful pocket, and the bag is lined in striped linen; woven for us in Wexford, Ireland. Contrasting berry-toned stripes complement its colour.
A gently worn leather strap - repurposed from equestrian tack - is in evidence, along with its original brass buckle; rectangular with eased corners. It is adjustable, enabling the bag to be worn on the shoulder or across the body. The strap is triple stitched (by hand) to the bag’s side panels, and has an elegant, holed, trailing surplus with a tapered end. All leatherwork was sourced, revived and expertly hand-stitched using waxed linen thread by Caroline Strecker of Rag of Colts.
Finally, for protection and to give the desired sculptural feel, the bag was gently brushed with a traditional, natural sizing.
Dimensions: Height - 26cm, Length - 30cm, Depth - 5cm
Artists - Janet Tristram & Cameron Short in collaboration with Caroline Strecker.
