ARIADNE’S NAAIKUSSEN
Historical Needlework and Sewing Utensils
THE Forum | October 15, 2023, to April 28, 2024

Draiflessen Collection
Georgstraße 18 | 49497 Mettingen
info@draiflessen.com | www.draiflessen.com

A Unique Collection of Historical Needlework and Sewing Utensils
Since 2018, the Draiflessen Collection has been home to the “Stichting (Collection) Ariadne’s Naaikussen (Sewing Cushions).” This exceptional collection was assembled over several decades by the collector Clementine Kuttschrütter (née Brenninkmeijer). It includes about 2,000 historical needlework and sewing utensils, a collection of textile samples, and a specialized library. The precious gems mostly date from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and are artistically crafted from valuable materials. Among them are not only widely used needlework utensils such as needles, scissors, thimbles, and elaborate sewing boxes, but also less common items such as yarn balls, sewing clamps, and shuttles for frivolity work.

Creative Expression and Cultural Richness
This presentation allows visitors to discover anew the practical significance and aesthetic beauty of these rare and fascinating objects. It will be accompanied by a series of events and workshops that will offer visitors an opportunity to delve deeper into the fascinating world of historic needlework and sewing utensils, and to discover that some forgotten techniques might hold particular appeal again today in terms of craftsmanship and aesthetics.
“We are thrilled to be able to present this extraordinary collection to the public,” remarks the curator Dr. Maria Spitz. “ARIADNE’S NAAIKUSSEN provides us with fascinating insight into the world of craftsmanship and art, especially in the eighteenth and nineteeth centuries. The collection showcases not only the technical skills of the time, but also the creative expressiveness and cultural richness expressed in these artfully crafted objects.”

First Presentation of Collection Highlights
ARIADNE’S NAAIKUSSEN in the DAS Forum of the Draiflessen Collection presents highlights from this unique collection and marks the beginning of scholarly treatment of this outstanding treasure. At the same time, the exhibition serves as a tribute to Clementine Kuttschrütter, who would have turned ninety in 2023.