{"product_id":"a-coded-act-of-loyalty-jacobite-king-over-the-water-toast-captured-in-british-needlework","title":"A Coded Act of Loyalty: Jacobite “King Over the Water” Toast Captured in British Needlework","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"244\" data-start=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitle 🏛️\u003cspan data-end=\"13\" data-start=\"0\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA Coded Act of Loyalty: Jacobite “King Over the Water” Toast Captured in British Needlework (Signed Knowles, 1974)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"137\" data-start=\"134\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"244\" data-start=\"137\"\u003eA rare textile tableau immortalising one of the most discreet yet powerful gestures of Stuart allegiance.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"249\" data-start=\"246\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"583\" data-start=\"251\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"274\" data-start=\"251\"\u003eSubject \u0026amp; Medium 🧵\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"277\" data-start=\"274\"\u003eA finely executed late 20th-century British needlework panel in wool on canvas, depicting the clandestine Jacobite ritual known as the “King over the Water” toast—an act steeped in symbolism, loyalty, and political subtext.\u003cbr data-end=\"503\" data-start=\"500\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"583\" data-start=\"503\"\u003eA narrative textile that transforms quiet rebellion into enduring visual form.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"588\" data-start=\"585\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1093\" data-start=\"590\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"620\" data-start=\"590\"\u003eComposition \u0026amp; Technique 🎨\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"623\" data-start=\"620\"\u003eThe composition balances intimacy with theatrical symbolism. At its centre, a finely stitched hand—emerging from an ornate lace cuff evocative of 18th-century aristocratic dress—raises a wine glass engraved with the white rose of the Stuart dynasty. The gesture is deliberate and poised, embodying coded allegiance.\u003cbr data-end=\"941\" data-start=\"938\"\u003eBeneath, a vessel of water completes the ritual: the glass raised above it in silent tribute to the exiled monarch, rendered with clarity and precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1155\" data-start=\"1095\"\u003eSurrounding elements enrich both meaning and visual depth:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1478\" data-start=\"1156\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1236\" data-start=\"1156\" data-section-id=\"1d7z8y1\"\u003eA single lit candle, suggesting secrecy, watchfulness, and enduring devotion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1319\" data-start=\"1237\" data-section-id=\"1wsuhdy\"\u003eA tartan plaid, referencing Highland identity and Prince Charles Edward Stuart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1374\" data-start=\"1320\" data-section-id=\"c74qdr\"\u003eA Jacobite cockade, subtle yet politically charged\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1478\" data-start=\"1375\" data-section-id=\"we9lqc\"\u003eA composed still-life arrangement, grounding symbolism within a domestic yet conspiratorial setting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1849\" data-start=\"1480\"\u003eThe dark ground enhances tonal contrast, lending a chiaroscuro effect reminiscent of Old Master painting. Stitchwork displays confident tonal modulation, textural variation, and compositional control—elevating the piece into the realm of narrative textile art.\u003cbr data-end=\"1743\" data-start=\"1740\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"1849\" data-start=\"1743\"\u003eA carefully orchestrated visual language where every element serves both aesthetic and symbolic purpose.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1854\" data-start=\"1851\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2293\" data-start=\"1856\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1891\" data-start=\"1856\"\u003eAbout the Jacobite Rebellion ⚔️\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1894\" data-start=\"1891\"\u003eThe Jacobite movement remains one of Britain’s most romanticised and politically charged historical narratives. Following the deposition of King James II in 1688, loyalists continued to support the exiled Stuart line, often under threat of persecution.\u003cbr data-end=\"2149\" data-start=\"2146\"\u003eWithin this climate, coded rituals emerged—none more evocative than the “King over the Water” toast, performed discreetly in private gatherings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2644\" data-start=\"2295\"\u003eEngraved glasses bearing symbols such as the white rose, oak leaves, or celestial motifs allowed silent identification among sympathisers. This needlework captures that hidden culture—translating an ephemeral act of defiance into a permanent, contemplative image.\u003cbr data-end=\"2561\" data-start=\"2558\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"2644\" data-start=\"2561\"\u003eA quiet gesture of resistance preserved through the language of material culture.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2649\" data-start=\"2646\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3126\" data-start=\"2651\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2674\" data-start=\"2651\"\u003eAbout the Artist ✍️\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"2677\" data-start=\"2674\"\u003eSigned M.A. Knowles and dated 1974, the maker exemplifies a tradition of skilled British needleworkers engaging with historical narrative and symbolism. Though not formally documented in academic circles, the work demonstrates informed intent and strong interpretive ability.\u003cbr data-end=\"2955\" data-start=\"2952\"\u003eThis is deliberate, studied craftsmanship—far removed from casual decorative practice.\u003cbr data-end=\"3044\" data-start=\"3041\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"3126\" data-start=\"3044\"\u003eA thoughtful maker translating history into textile with clarity and conviction.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3131\" data-start=\"3128\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3465\" data-start=\"3133\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3163\" data-start=\"3133\"\u003eHistorical Significance 📜\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"3166\" data-start=\"3163\"\u003eProduced during a broader 20th-century revival of interest in British heritage and Jacobite mythology, this piece reflects a period of reinterpretation and cultural rediscovery.\u003cbr data-end=\"3346\" data-start=\"3343\"\u003eUnlike mass-produced decorative works, it stands as a singular, handcrafted response to a historically charged subject.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3646\" data-start=\"3467\"\u003eTextile depictions of Jacobite symbolism—particularly the treason glass tradition—remain relatively scarce, positioning this work within a distinctive collecting niche spanning:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"3740\" data-start=\"3647\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3659\" data-start=\"3647\" data-section-id=\"y8bs8x\"\u003eFolk art\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3683\" data-start=\"3660\" data-section-id=\"1sor1m8\"\u003ePolitical symbolism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3709\" data-start=\"3684\" data-section-id=\"xp6ez4\"\u003eHistorical revivalism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3740\" data-start=\"3710\" data-section-id=\"faq92m\"\u003eNarrative textile practice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3822\" data-start=\"3742\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"3822\" data-start=\"3742\"\u003eA rare intersection of craftsmanship, history, and coded political expression.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3827\" data-start=\"3824\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4002\" data-start=\"3829\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3840\" data-start=\"3829\"\u003eSize 📏\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"3843\" data-start=\"3840\"\u003eHeight: 31 cm\u003cbr data-end=\"3859\" data-start=\"3856\"\u003eWidth: 25 cm\u003cbr data-end=\"3874\" data-start=\"3871\"\u003eDepth: 1.5 cm\u003cbr data-end=\"3890\" data-start=\"3887\"\u003e(All measurements include the frame.)\u003cbr data-end=\"3930\" data-start=\"3927\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"4002\" data-start=\"3930\"\u003eA well-proportioned cabinet piece suited to intimate display settings.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4007\" data-start=\"4004\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4325\" data-start=\"4009\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4023\" data-start=\"4009\"\u003eFramed 🖼️\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"4026\" data-start=\"4023\"\u003ePresented in a traditional gilt frame with protective front glass, enhancing both the period character and visual presence of the work. Suitable for immediate display within traditional, academic, or eclectic interiors.\u003cbr data-end=\"4248\" data-start=\"4245\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"4325\" data-start=\"4248\"\u003eA ready-to-hang piece that integrates seamlessly into curated environments.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4330\" data-start=\"4327\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4351\" data-start=\"4332\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4349\" data-start=\"4332\"\u003eProvenance 📌\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"4572\" data-start=\"4352\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4391\" data-start=\"4352\" data-section-id=\"fja99o\"\u003eInscribed verso: M.A. Knowles, 1974\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4442\" data-start=\"4392\" data-section-id=\"mdlwzw\"\u003eOriginal retailer label: Boots Picture Framing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4572\" data-start=\"4443\" data-section-id=\"1bu1era\"\u003eCurated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD\u003cbr data-end=\"4491\" data-start=\"4488\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"4572\" data-start=\"4491\"\u003eA clearly traceable and professionally handled example with defined authorship.\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4577\" data-start=\"4574\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5084\" data-start=\"4579\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4604\" data-start=\"4579\"\u003eWhy You’ll Love It ❤️\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"4607\" data-start=\"4604\"\u003e✔ A rare Jacobite subject interpreted through textile art\u003cbr data-end=\"4667\" data-start=\"4664\"\u003e✔ Rich in layered symbolism and historical narrative\u003cbr data-end=\"4722\" data-start=\"4719\"\u003e✔ Strong atmospheric presence with a refined “dark heritage” aesthetic\u003cbr data-end=\"4795\" data-start=\"4792\"\u003e✔ Appeals to collectors of Stuart history, Scottish culture, and political artefacts\u003cbr data-end=\"4882\" data-start=\"4879\"\u003e✔ A unique crossover between folk art and intellectual storytelling\u003cbr data-end=\"4952\" data-start=\"4949\"\u003e✔ Ideal for studies, libraries, or historically informed interiors\u003cbr data-end=\"5021\" data-start=\"5018\"\u003e✔ A compelling conversation piece rewarding close examination\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5160\" data-start=\"5086\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"5160\" data-start=\"5086\"\u003eA piece that invites both visual appreciation and historical reflection.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"5165\" data-start=\"5162\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5651\" data-start=\"5167\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"5190\" data-start=\"5167\"\u003eCondition Report 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"5193\" data-start=\"5190\"\u003eThe needlework remains in good vintage condition, with minor age-related spotting\/foxing visible under close inspection—consistent with textile works of this period. Colours are stable, and the structure is intact. The frame shows light wear, including small scuffs and surface marks commensurate with age and handling. Overall presentation remains highly attractive and display-ready.\u003cbr data-end=\"5581\" data-start=\"5578\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"5651\" data-start=\"5581\"\u003eA well-preserved example retaining both integrity and visual impact.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"5656\" data-start=\"5653\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-is-only-node=\"\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-end=\"5913\" data-start=\"5658\"\u003e🌍 Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured for secure international delivery.\u003cbr data-end=\"5770\" data-start=\"5767\"\u003eClick \u003cem data-end=\"5788\" data-start=\"5776\"\u003eBuy It Now\u003c\/em\u003e to secure this piece.\u003cbr data-end=\"5813\" data-start=\"5810\"\u003eExplore \u003cstrong data-end=\"5857\" data-start=\"5821\"\u003eCheshire Antiques Consultant LTD\u003c\/strong\u003e for further curated works.\u003cbr data-end=\"5887\" data-start=\"5884\"\u003eQuestions welcome anytime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45201814585597,"sku":"k1255","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0201\/2227\/1808\/files\/historic-tapestry-jacobites-treason-hand-toasting-james-iii-king-over-the-water-768947.jpg?v=1716670832","url":"https:\/\/cheshireantiquesconsultantltd.com\/products\/a-coded-act-of-loyalty-jacobite-king-over-the-water-toast-captured-in-british-needlework","provider":"Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD","version":"1.0","type":"link"}