RALPH HELM JOHONNOT (1879-1940) & SALOME JOHONNOT (1883-1961)

Through pieces from the family as well as period articles and photos, we have been able to attribute several textile examples to that of Ralph & Salome Johonnot. Their work ranged from simple block work pieces to elaborate decorative tapestries filled with applique, stitching and beadwork on sumptuous silk. Much of the work was handmade yet they also worked with machines. One of their close associates was Emma Waldvogel who had come to Pasadena from Sweden and had brought along a “new machine” for textile work.

The black & white photo pictured here is from an exhibition they participated in around 1913 in Portland, Oregon. The family photo of Ralph shows the exact tapestry here, hung behind him. The Home &. Garden article from 1916 shows several examples of embroidered work as well as printed and painted fabric for drapes & scarfs. Pictured along with the article are the actual printing blocks used in the article, the large blocks were actually photographed as well. There is also a large tapestry of a home pictured in a 1926 School Arts Magazine.

These textiles are far ahead of their time in terms of design, color and detail and are an important link in the history of modern textile work in America.