Casgliadau Arlein

One of a pair of tie-on waist pockets (with 31.31.3). Worn by Jane Thomas of Pont-siân in the mid-1800s when going to local markets and fairs. Made from a piece of flannel embroidered in coloured wools, using the same techniques and motifs found on samplers. Pocket opening bound with woollen twill braid. Embroidered motifs include birds, flowering plants, hearts and geometric motifs.

The fronts of this pair of attached pockets are each made of one piece of wool flannel and embroidered in coloured wools in stylised birds, flowers, trees and geometric patterns. On the left pocket the following letters are just legible embroidered either side of the lower opening: ‘SALI JONES CWA / RIW VE NO'. On the top left of the right pocket some more letters can just be seen. The backs are ingeniously repaired with numerous patches of different cottons and linens. The openings are bound with yellow-brown wool braid over the original faded and worn pink binding. A length of striped tape, with white plain tape added, joins the two pockets. [Description by Barbara Burman: Pockets of History Project]