‘Culpeper bags’ | MOTHERWORT * VENUS | Bag V of VII

This smaller bag is constructed from robust, antique linen, woven in the 1800s. It was dipped multiple times in dye vats of indigo and weld to achieve its rich, deep colour - echoing the verdant shades of the hedgerow.

The bag’s front flap is adorned with a block print - imagined by artist maker, Janet Tristram - magically fusing plant with ruling planet. The print, in linseed-based Old gold, almost glows out of the green.

The image, grounded in astrological herbalism, is of Motherwort within the solid orb of Venus, its ruling planet. Describing the plant, Culpeper writes: ‘This hath a hard, square, strong stalk, spreading into many branches, whereon grow leaves on each side, with many great veins therein’. 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. Their tapered ends mirror those of the block-printed ribbon.

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: V of VII.

The bag has a useful internal pocket, and is lined in striped linen, woven for us in Wexford, Ireland. The contrasting berry-toned stripes complement the bag’s colour.

A strong leather strap - repurposed from equestrian tack - is in evidence, along with its original, patinaed brass buckle; rectangular with eased corners. The strap is of dark brown leather, and is adjustable, enabling the bag to be worn on the shoulder or across the body. It 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 - 29cm, Length - 30cm, Depth - 5cm

Artists - Janet Tristram & Cameron Short in collaboration with Caroline Strecker.