Pair of needlepoint tapestries: goddesses in a garden

WHERE WAS IT MADE?These needlepoint tapestries were made in England in the 18th century.HOW WAS IT MADE?Needlepoint or canvas work has been used for centuries in many different countries. It is sometimes called needlepoint tapestry because of its visual similarity to woven tapestry, but it is not true tapestry, as it is not woven. Needlepoint is a method of completely covering the surface of a fabric in counted-thread embroidery stitches. The base cloth for the embroidery can be linen, canvas or wool. Embroidery threads can be wool, silk or cotton. Although needlepoint stitches resemble those used in other embroidery work, they are in fact much denser. Canvas is the ideal base for needlework because it allows the embroiderer to ensure that the embroidered stitches are precisely spaced.HOW WAS IT USED?These two needlepoint tapestries were likely made to be decorative wall hangings. Needlepoint was used to make wall hangings, upholstery, and other fabrics used for decorative purposes.WHY DOES IT LOOK LIKE THIS?At the center of each composition stands a female figure between two trees. One figure is Diana or Artemis, Greek goddess of the hunt, seen wearing short Classical dress and a crescent shaped crown upon her head. Notice that she carries her bow and quiver of arrows upon her back. Beside her walks a stag, alluding to the figure of Acteon (Aktion), who she turned into a stag as punishment for spying on her as she bathed. The other female figure is less clear. She likely represents another Greek goddess, possibly Demeter or Ceres, goddess of agriculture and the harvest, as she appears to be holding flowers in one hand. Notice the trees on either side of each figure; one appears to be an oak with acorns while the other appears to be a palm. The color scheme of pinks, reds, deep blue and shades of green is typical of the period.