Casgliadau Arlein

Single tie-on waist pocket from Pontrhydyfen, about 1848. The front of this pocket is made of three pieces of wool flannel, unlined. Embroidered in coloured wools, in cross and other stitches, in stylised trees, flowers, birds, hearts, geometric patterns and the name ‘Ann Jones 1848' can still be made out between lines of blue and black stitches running across the pocket below the opening. The opening and pocket edges are bound with pink tape and plain tapes are attached across the top. The back is made of one piece of wool flannel, darned and stained. Though much faded and worn, this pocket is a charming example of what was probably a local style of pocket decoration. It is known to have been worn by the donor's great-grandmother at Pontrhydyfen, Glamorgan.