It may conjure up memories of the early 1980's, but flame stitch, aka Bargello needlework, has been around for centuries. The earliest accounts of this embroidery work date back to a set of 17th century chairs at the Bargello palace in Florence. The patterns are generally characterized by diagonal lines in gradating tones to resemble a flame or in some cases a curved or geometric floral motif.
From top:
A pair of flame stitch pillows adorn the sofa of designer Evan Lobel, a champion of the eighties resurgence. (photo from New York Magazine).
Jonathan Adler "Bargello" pillows adorn Liz Lange's New York Apartment (photo from Domino).
Flame stitch pillows are spotted in Trina Turk's mid century living room in L.A. (photo from Elle Decor).
11 comments:
How nice to see these. I have an amazing friend who made (yes, made) four Bargello pillows for me about ten years ago. I treasure them.
Ack. Forgot to ask if I might include your blog as a link on mine (I'm putting together a handful of favorite--and user-friendly-- design/inspiration/style sites). Hope I'm not seeming too stalker-ish with these multiple comments.
Great post! I LOVE the architecture of the room in the third picture. If you have a great backyard, what better way to enjoy it than through a room with all windows?
Hi Dianamuse, Thanks for linking to me. I will do the same.
Thanks Sarah. I am not even sure if I like flame stitch, but I am seeing it everywhere. And yes, that is a fab backyard.
I like Bargello pillows, but usually only in bright colors!
Great post! It's true--the flame stich is everywhere--reminds of Missoni's patterns--I even have a black, champagne and cream flame stitch sweater.
I am liking the flame stitch pillows again too. The ones that look a bit ikat-ish. Nice post!:)
I am not a fan of Bargello Pillows.
Guess I still have not gotten over the shock of living through the 80's. What I wonder is..are football shoulder pads and Farah Fawcet hair going to make a resurgence?
Great images!
I love the openness of the home and all the windows in it.
-Zane of ontario honey
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