6 Early XXth Century damask linen napkins with C.D. initials. - Napkin - 65 cm - 77 cm

I find these twelve rare and truly unusual napkins both magnificent but difficult to describe.

Even the owners of the château, from whom I have acquired some superb antique linens over the years, were unable to provide further history or provenance. Together, we searched the inventory ledger in which every purchase has been meticulously recorded since the early 18th century, when the château was built, but no record of these napkins could be found.

In the ten years I have spent handling thousands of pieces of antique linen, I have never encountered this particular design. We also do not know whether they originally formed part of a larger table linen set. The château owners searched the remaining Normandy wardrobes in the linen room, hoping to find matching pieces, but without success.

Judging by their condition, these napkins appear to have seen very little use. They remain in excellent condition.

The hand-embroidered initials “C.D.” measure approximately 7.5cm in height and are worked in two strands of red thread, creating a beautiful and highly unusual effect. The design of the monogram is particularly distinctive—playful, elegant, and unlike any I have seen before.
The napkins are hand hemmed

The graceful curves of the initials are highlighted with delicate embroiderery while fine single-thread embroidery within the letters adds depth, emphasis, and refinement.


This is an exceptional and intriguing collection, rich in character and mystery, deserving to be cherished once again by a new owner who will appreciate its beauty, craftsmanship, and rarity.