Looking for information about an interesting framed filigree type metal art work

[kerrberry]

I'm hoping for any information about this metal artwork piece. The design is metal flowers and leaves, possibly copper, and quite heavy. It is made with many slivers and bended metal. It reminds me of filigree jewelry. It measures about 16" x 12.5" in the frame. The metal art itself measures 9.5" x 6.5". I thought maybe this was an architectural piece, framed at a later time? Has anyone seen anything like this, or has an idea of its origin, or what this type of work is called? I've had it about 15 years, bought at a yard or estate sale. Thanks for taking a look!

Kerrie

[johnnycb09 · Accepted solution]

Looks like some sort of printing press block,perhaps for fabric . Just a guess.

[lacemaker3]

I think this is a stamp that was used to decorate textiles, which has been repurposed as artwork.

I think it was used to stamp dye onto the fabric, or possibly wax or a resist of some kind onto the fabric before it was dyed.

[maxine*j]

Definitely fabric stamps, as others have said.  Quite possibly from India.

 Here's a Google image search to show you many others:

https://www.google.com/search?q=metal+fabric+stamps&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiXgNraxd7fA...

[kerrberry]

Thanks to both of you! My mind never went there, but it makes a lot of sense. Will be researching printing plates etc. right now

[maxine*j]

It's not really a "printing plate," so you'll be better off if you don't use that phrase in your searches.

[kerrberry]

I found some similar examples under fabric stamp, print, and block. I wish I had posted this years ago 🙂 It is great to finally know what it is.

Many thanks!

Kerrie

[maxine*j]

You're welcome.  I agree with whoever framed these, that the stamps are enjoyable as works of art in themselves. 

[debora_34_]

It's a (fabric) printer's block.  Typically, they're from India but yours looks as if it might be from further east.

Debora

[little.font.lord.leroy]

It's a metal batik stamp.