Images(4)

Table Cover, Embroidered and Quilted

Date1710-1720

MediumCotton ground, silk embroidery and quilting threads, linen backing and seam stitching threads, linen fringe (fiber identification by microscope in textile lab)

DimensionsOW: 55 1/2"; OH: 60"; fringe: 3 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1956-305

DescriptionThis is an embroidered table cover, almost square in shape. The design is worked on white cotton twill in multicolor silk embroidery using chain stitches and French knots against a background stitched in small diamonds with yellow backstitches, 16-22 per inch, all worked through a coarse backing of plain-woven linen. There is no batting. The design consists of feathery scrolling leaves forming an eight-pointed central floral medallion with quarter medallions in the four corners. The larger motifs are filled with stylized flowers such as roses, carnations, poppies, and peonies, with serrate and lanceolate leaves and thin stems. Four exotic birds appear in the ground around the main motif. Additional embroidered flowers form a wide border on all four sides. The four edges are trimmed with a knotted linen "fly" fringe. Areas of ink pattern drawing are visible where the embroidery stitches were not worked, especially around the outside edges.
Label TextThe small size and square shape of this textile suggest that it was used as a decorative table cover, rather than as a bed quilt. The silk embroidery is an interpretation of Asian motifs by an English needleworker, probably in a professional workshop.
ProvenanceArditti & Mayorcas, 1956