The freehand machine embroidery of Laura Lees makes for a sumptuous, pictorial embellishment of an antique footstool. The contrast of Victorian varnished wood and riotously abstract modernist embroidery is utterly joyful, matched with the irreverence that comes with resting one’s weary feet upon a work of art. Here, Laura has brought to life “organic debris” – a mixture of reeds and leaves in a state of decay – with her machine. The mulchy matter is beautifully finished with black twisted cord, where embroidery meets stool.

Height 11cm, seat diameter 27.5cm.