The society silk style of
embroidery began as a past time in England long before it came to America.
For some women it eventually became a way to earn a living from home.
Perhaps the original American cottage industry, fine silk embroideries could be
produced at home and then sold as lots to linen houses for sale in a wider
market. "Society silk" is a popular reference to the Royal Society of
Embroidery that produced the silk floss, embroidery patterns and promoted the
cottage embroidery of finer pieces. Additionally, they promoted embroidery
"clubs" that fostered friendly competition between members to produce the finest
work. This glorious piece of embroidery came from that period and
represents the very best of technique, materials and design.
Pretty enough to
frame...but use them...I dare you!
Antique society silk
embroidered pomegranates and plums on crisp creamy white linen are an exquisite
complement to your French country chateau or Paris apartment...Centerpiece size
doilies were originally used as "chargers" or desert mats on a very prissy table
one hundred years ago. Each bears three fruit and three floral vignettes
in a warm country color palette of greens, gold, lavender and shades of red and
pink. Some of the finest embroidery work I've seen...the beauty is in the
details, from the pomegranate seeds to the tulip's ruffles. Exceptional in
every way. Freshly laundered in LeBlanc Linen Wash and pressed by
hand...10 are nearly perfect, $65 each. 2 have age stains in the
embroidered area, $50 each. c.1900 -- 1920 12" round