
Hestekastanie – wall piece – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)
- Motif: Horse chestnut with dense foliage crown and characteristic leaf structure
- Size: 14 × 18 cm
- Thread: Danish Flower Thread
- Fabric: Haandarbejdets Fremme (HF) linen 10B (natural white)
- Designer: Gerda Bengtsson
Hestekastanie – wall piece – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)
"Hestekastanie" (Horse Chestnut) – wall piece – Gerda Bengtsson (GB) is a botanical embroidery focusing on the tree’s distinctive form. The broad, rounded crown fills the surface and is supported by a short, sturdy trunk.
The horse chestnut is a familiar and characteristic tree in the Danish landscape. In spring it flowers with upright clusters of white blossoms with delicate pink and yellow details, and later in the year it develops its well-known green, spiky fruits.
The foliage is worked in shades of light and dark green. The palmate leaves form a dense and rhythmic pattern, where lighter areas create depth within the crown. The composition is cohesive and balanced, allowing the tree to appear solid and well rooted.
Danish Flower Thread provides vibrant colour effect and a clear stitch structure. Linen 10B from Haandarbejdets Fremme supports the botanical details and gives the embroidery a crisp and precise appearance. The format is well suited as a smaller wall piece, where the motif can stand alone without distraction.
The design forms part of the naturalistic tradition that characterises Haandarbejdets Fremme. Gerda Bengtsson combines botanical observation with simple form. The result is a classic embroidery with clear plant identity and high craftsmanship quality.

