Vintage and Antique Linens by Em's Heart
Antique Society Silk Embroidered
Irish Linen Napkins
Item Number N46106
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 industry of embroidery of finer pieces. Additionally, they promoted embroidery "clubs" that fostered friendly competition between members to produce the finest work. This glorious set of embroidered napkins came from that period and represents the very best of technique, materials and design.
How ever could someone have parted with this amazing set after the last stitch was sewn? At first glance it appears the pattern is imprinted...a longer glance will make you gasp audibly as I did when I first laid eyes on them. The three dimensional embroidery is heavily couched (padded) and perfectly shaded in the cleanest and most elegant work I've ever seen. My thought is that these were made by a highly experienced embroidress and sold for profit, as described above. They were never used and are still polished and as crisp as they were the day they left her hands. A wee bit of age shows on all six...and they are creamy beige but will soak to a light cream to white. These would be marvelous framed individually...oh, MY!! Offered as found in perfect condition with age, as described and shown.
c.1900 -- 1910 18" X 17"
Item Sold
Set of 6 society silk embroidered Irish linen napkins
