He was overwhelmed and pleased when he found them. “They are wonderful pieces of Kiwiana.”
The pieces are in good condition, but will need to be cleaned by a textile conservator and reframed with acid-free materials.
Schwartz has done a considerable amount of research into the possible origin of the pieces and the era they were made in.
“If these were done by soldiers they were done very well, they learned quickly.”
Some men were in hospital for a long time so could have picked up the ability to do such exquisite embroidery.
Alternatively, the pieces might have been done for soldiers.
The badges are from the 14th South Otago Company of the Otago Infantry Regiment.
Toitū Otago Settlers Museum told Schwartz it does not have any pieces like the ones he bought. He might donate them to the museum once he has learned more about their history.
Detail of one of the embroideries. The regiment's motto ake kia kaha means be forever strong. Photo / Judith Lacy
Embroidery, knitting, weaving and other handiworks were used as a rehabilitation therapy for soldiers.
Schwartz found a November 1916 Daily Sketch article that said the embroidery frame is not just a tool of leisure but a distraction from pain.
