Goldwork

Goldwork is a luxurious technique of embroidery with metal (gold or silver) threads, purl, plates and cords, creating a rich, glittering, relief pattern. Since the metal thread is stiff and expensive, it is mostly not pulled through the fabric but laid on top and sewn down with a fine working thread (a technique akin to couching). Historically goldwork was an art of luxury and power: it adorned church vestments, royal robes, uniforms and the ceremonial dress of the nobility. In Ukraine gold and silver work (haptuvannia) was a high monastic and secular craft. The technique requires enormous mastery, patience and precious materials. In fashion it is valued for its unrivalled luxury and radiance. Goldwork is a technique of precious, glittering embroidery, in which the masterful laying of metal threads creates a rich, relief and majestic pattern that has for centuries remained a symbol of luxury, power and the highest craft.