Anna Maria Garthwaite

Place: Harston

Born: 1688

Death: 1763

Biography:

Anna Maria Garthwaite was a renowned English textile designer, celebrated for her exquisite floral designs on silk fabrics. Born in Harston, Leicestershire, in 1688, she went on to become one of the most prominent designers of her time. Her work had a significant impact on the development of the Rococo style in England.

Early Life and Career

Garthwaite's early life is not well-documented, but it is known that she began her career as a freelance textile designer in York. She later moved to Spitalfields, London, where she created over 1000 designs for woven silks over three decades. Her designs were highly sought after by master weavers, including Peter Lekeux, who wove the silk used for the waistcoat now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Design Style and Legacy

Garthwaite's designs were characterized by their use of botanically-accurate flowers, which became a hallmark of English Rococo style. Her adaptation of the points rentrés technique allowed her to create near-three-dimensional floral patterns through careful shading. Many of her original designs in watercolors have survived and are now housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum. These designs showcase her mastery of color, light, and texture. Some notable examples of Garthwaite's work include:

• Waistcoat (Garthwaite/Lekeux), a rare example of 18th-century clothing with the original textile design and dated record of both the designer and master weaver.
• Silk brocade designed by Garthwaite and woven by Peter Lekeux, featuring silver patterns combined with naturalistic florals.

of Garthwaite's legacy include her contribution to the development of English Rococo style, her innovative use of color and texture, and her influence on the work of other designers.

Influence and Recognition

Garthwaite's work has been recognized by art historians and museums worldwide. Her designs have been exhibited at various institutions, including the Staatliche Museen Kassel in Germany. The Wikioo.org website features many of her designs, allowing art enthusiasts to explore her work in detail. For more information on Anna Maria Garthwaite and her designs, visit Wikioo.org or the Victoria and Albert Museum website. Her biography can also be found on Wikipedia.