Background/Story
The button seems to be built over a padded textile base, with a yellow silk or glossy thread ground beneath the metal work. The purl was probably stitched or couched into place by hand, following the curved pattern. A metal shank passes through the dark garment fabric, and on the reverse it appears to be held tightly with a pale wool or wool-like scrap. This little securing pad may have helped anchor the button firmly without tearing the velvet.
This 18th-century embroidered fabric button is still firmly attached to a remnant of dark velvet. At only about 22 mm across, its surface is decorated with gilt metal coils, called purl, over a yellow silk or satin ground, giving the button the glittering shimmer that once suited a fine coat or waistcoat. This button is featured in the May 2026 issue of the Button Aerogramme
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