Hængepil – wall piece – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)

Hængepil – wall piece – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)

This embroidery depicts a weeping willow rendered as a calm and simple nature motif. The tree fills most of the surface of the design and stands alone so that its form appears clearly defined. The crown is broad and rounded with a slightly uneven upper edge that gives the tree a natural and lively character. It is embroidered in muted green tones that suggest dense foliage gathered in soft, continuous surfaces.

The most distinctive feature of the motif is the long, drooping branches that fall from the crown in thin vertical lines. Some branches hang closely together, while others fall more freely, creating small light spaces between the foliage. This gives the tree a light and almost floating appearance, even though the crown itself appears dense and full. The length of the branches emphasises the characteristic growth of the weeping willow and creates a gentle contrast between the heavier green areas and the lighter, downward lines.

Small openings can be seen between branches and leaves near the centre of the motif, adding depth to the interior of the tree. At the base the composition gathers around the slender trunk, embroidered in warm brown tones. The trunk stands centrally and forms a simple vertical counterpoint to the wide crown and the many drooping branches. At ground level a narrow base line anchors the tree and gives the motif a sense of stability.

The colour palette is restrained and harmonious. Green tones dominate the motif, giving the embroidery a soft and natural expression, while the trunk adds warmth through its brown shades. The overall composition is simple yet rich in subtle variations of form and rhythm that make the motif visually engaging.

The embroidery is worked in cross stitch with Danish Flower Thread on linen. The stitches provide texture and character to the surfaces of the tree so that foliage, branches and trunk all appear clearly defined. It is a classic embroidery with a botanical motif in which the distinctive silhouette and calm expression of the weeping willow take centre stage.

About Haandarbejdets Fremme

Haandarbejdets Fremme has held an important position in Danish embroidery since 1928 and is known for designs featuring nature motifs, flowers and botanical studies. The association’s patterns are characterised by a strong respect for form, colour and composition, which is also evident in this embroidery.

Gerda Bengtsson is considered one of the most influential designers associated with Haandarbejdets Fremme. Her motifs are recognised for their confident design language and close observation of nature, and her work has played a major role in establishing botanical embroidery as an important part of Danish needlework tradition.