Summary

Hand carved wooden screen, three parts, with gum nut and leaves motif. Made by Annie Isabella Maxwell, nee Beardmore (1865-1958), circa 1900-1910. It is a well-made piece showing the use of 'Australian' motifs like native flora in the decorative arts.

Mrs Maxwell came from a landowning family near Glenrowan, and first married William Gordon, who was drowned, leaving her with a young family. She moved to Melbourne for medical reasons relating to her son's health; she remarried a Mr Maxwell (a banker?) and they had a couple of homes in Malvern - large homes with tennis courts and horses. The daughters of the family stayed home when they finished school. The screen was probably carved circa 1910. Mrs Maxwell also made wooden chairs. The screen was donated by her grand-daughter.

Physical Description

Hand carved wooden screen, three parts, with gum nut and leaves motif.

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