Vintage and Antique Linens by Em's Heart
Antique Society Silk Embroidered Centerpiece
"Lace and Roses"
Item Number T25106
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 piece of embroidery came from that period and represents the very best of technique, materials and design.
The Kensington stitch used layers, directionality and fine gradations of shade to achieve the botanical realism we have come to so thoroughly admire. This is one of the best I've ever seen...
As if they had fallen from your arms onto a pristine white linen and lace tablecloth, these amazingly realistic silk embroidered roses show the whimsy and thoughtfulness of the maker in both presentation and execution....how unusual that the roses are all turned down in the very same way they would actually fall. Bend down and breath them in....I smell perfection in a centerpiece, don't you? The creamy white linen is fine and clear. Freshly laundered and pressed, in excellent condition. c.1890 - 1910 20.5" X 19" -- slightly oval
Item Sold
Antique society silk embroidered roses doily centerpiece with lace
