1820s “Old Vienna” Biedermeier portfolio 1920s reprint collection

Alt Wiener Stick-Muster translates to “Old Viennese Embroidery Patterns” and these lovely, classic florals, birds and scenes are as classic today as they were nearly 200 years ago. The original charts date to the early 1800s and this set was printed around 1925 in Austria. A total of 28 different numbered cards are included, the original set contained 32. Missing cards are #3, #6, #14 and #22– I can include copies of the missing cards if you’d like. Each card measures 4-7/8″ by 7-1/8″ with the charted portion measuring about 3-1/4″ by 4-3/4″. A 15-page German language booklet on the history is included.

The cards are in excellent condition, clean and bright (and would frame beautifully as a grouping), the beige portfolio has some wear and is missing one inner flap. The white margins and backs of the cards have yellowed slightly. As is typical of antique patterns, no thread color numbers are suggested and stitch counts are not offered.

I’ve collected all 32 pattern plates into a reproduction book titled “Berlin Work Patterns from Old Vienna” including the original essay from the series, which I’ve translated from German into English. The book is perfect if you’d like to enjoy stitching the patterns and not worry about handling the antique cards. The book can be viewed here.