Antique Society Silk Embroidered Tea Cloth
"Garlands and Posies"
Item Number T045611
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 embroidering 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.
Delightfully feminine antique linen society silk embroidered tea cloth is unique in design and elegant in presentation. A large open work embroidered inner border frames the center of the piece and is worked with perfect posy garlands...oh, MY! Repeating medallions form the outer garland border and seem to dance like little girls in a May Pole dance. A small area with dots of age is the only flaw and is shown below. Freshly laundered and pressed, in excellent condition. c.1890 - 1910 30" round
Antique society silk embroidered "Garlands and Posies" tea cloth
$165
