Vintage and Antique Linens by Em's Heart
Antique Linen Society Silk Embroidered Tea Cloth
"Pomegranates"
Item Number T26506
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 beautiful piece of embroidery came from that period and represents the very best of technique, materials and design.
Pomegranates and plums are fabulously embroidered on this special antique society silk tea cloth. Colors in golds, greens, lavender, and shades of red and pink are expertly embroidered in this most rare of subjects for the society silk genre of art needlework. A carefully hand executed design in vignettes of threes -- fruits and florals -- are unique throughout the piece....there is no repetition of shading! A fine finishing detail for your French country chateau or Paris apartment. Absolutely more wonderful in person.... The linen ground is creamy white...Offered in near perfect condition with a few speckles and an old faint fold line, shown below. Freshly laundered by me in LeBlanc Linen Wash and pressed to perfection. This piece is meant to be used... c.1900 - 1920. 29" round
Item Sold
Antique tea cloth, embroidered society silk "Pomegranates"
$295
