5. Book Stand and Decorative Cloth

A book stand and decorative cloth dating from the 18th–19th centuries. The exact date of the stand is unknown, as both the material and decorative patterns are typical of the 18th and 19th centuries, although its style more clearly reflects 19th-century Neoclassicism. It is possible that the stand was transferred to the Old Church from the Ulrika Eleonora Church, as much of that church’s movable property was relocated there.

According to the church’s inventory records, the stand has been in use since 1826. It remained in use at least until 1953, after which it was found in poor condition in the attic in the 1990s.

The book cloth on the stand consists of a silk moiré-patterned surface fabric, at the center of which an equilateral triangle is embroidered with gold-colored metal threads and sequins. Inside the triangle, an eye has been painted in oil. The triangular symbol refers to the Holy Trinity, God’s omniscience, and His providential gaze.

Surrounding the triangle are rays of light embroidered with gold-colored metal threads and sequins. In each corner of the cloth, large palm branches have been rendered in raised embroidery with gold-colored metal threads. The edges of the cloth are also adorned with gold-colored metallic fringe.