Vintage and Antique Linens by Em's Heart
Antique Society Silk Embroidered Tea Cloth
"Poppies and Lace"
Item Number T32608
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.
Everyone had roses. She wanted to be different. Better. The best. So she chose poppies for her subject...not red, not romantic, and not thorny. Just wild and beautiful. Giant reddish orange ("poppy red") poppies as big as my hand dance around the border of this magnificent piece in all stages of bloom from bud to seed. The thoughtful but random and realistic nature of the design are hallmarks of this wonderful style.
Delicate shading and attention to depth and direction are perfected here in a passionate and skilled effort. Minor age will not detract, I assure you. A minor small hole or two near the edge are hardly noticed. Breaks in the lace, both shown below, could be repaired or ignored. Freshly laundered and pressed, in excellent vintage condition. c.1890 - 1910 39" including lace
Item Sold
Antique society silk embroidered poppies tea cloth with Cluny lace
$325
