Descriptions

Veda Stewart Murray (1887-1976) wore this ‘mummy brown’ wool jersey day dress, made for her in about 1922. It is decorated with brightly coloured woollen yarns depicting plants and figures based on ancient Egyptian imagery.

Archaeologist Howard Carter entered the boy Pharoah Tutankhamun’s tomb for the first time in November 1922. He and his sponsor Lord Carnarvon later discovered the incredible treasures sealed in the tomb, sparking a global news sensation and leading to ‘Egyptomania’, a revival of interest in ancient Egypt and all aspects of its art and design.

The family may have visited Egypt on more than one occasion, as Veda refers to wearing white suits for trips to Africa, and in later life her daughter worked for the Foreign Office there.

The embroidery on this dress is probably professional work, resembling that of former Liberty embroiderer Amy Kotzé who advertised her business in the WSPU (Women’s Social and Political Union) newspaper and made dresses for the Pankhursts. Veda herself was a suffragette.


This object is not on display.