When actress Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956, there was a bit of Madeira at the banquet. The tablecloth was a piece of embroidery executed by the famous designer Herman Klein according to the island’s strict handicraft traditions. What about you? Do you dare to learn it?
This is a fascinating challenge. A private experience to bring you into intimate contact with a traditional treasure. Come along!
Over the last 175 years, Madeira embroidery has become one of the finest in the world, often purchased by the royal houses of Europe. The secret lies in the accuracy of the designs and the high quality of the pieces.
Elizabeth Phelps was one of the great driving forces behind this activity. She was born to an English businessman who came to Madeira in the mid 1850s. Impressed by the craftsmanship of the local women, she taught them the techniques of English embroidery. She then sent some of the first pieces back home, and orders were soon pouring in. A new art was born on the island.
Madeira’s women embroiderers were so skillful and original that three decades later they had established a style. It became an important source of income for thousands of families. The majority of the work was done at home, with the final finishing touches being done in the factories in Funchal. The skill of these women is legendary. And, once the embroidery is brought to the factory, it must pass several quality checks before it receives the guild’s seal and a label.
Now, are you up to the challenge? This exclusive masterclass is a profound way for you to also become a part of the island’s traditions, and take back home a piece of art.
