Lâle

Based on an enamelled wall tile made in Turkey during the 1500s, this striking embroidery incorporates both surface and raised embroidery techniques.

Embellished with beads, spangles and gold threads, the elegant tulip is worked with vividly coloured silks.

Often associated with Holland, the tulip is actually indigenous to Turkey and was introduced to Europe during the sixteenth century.

Embroidery of the Ottoman Empire at this time was rich with floral motifs including artichokes, carnations, pomegranates, roses, hyacinths and tulips, known as 'lâle' in Turkish.