6 Early XXth Century damask linen napkins with A.J. initials - Textile - 68 cm - 84 cm

6 Damask Linen Napkins with Hand-Embroidered A.J. Monogram

This set comprises six damask linen napkins, each hand embroidered with the initials A.J.

Interestingly, the lot actually arrived with twelve seemingly identical napkins. However, while ironing them, I discovered that although both sets bear the same embroidered initials, the damask weave is completely different. This would have been perfectly normal in 19th-century France, where well-to-do families often owned numerous damask linen sets, all personalised with the same family monogram.

The hand-embroidered A.J. initials are each subtly unique, reflecting the individuality of handmade work. They are enclosed within an elegant oval wreath of stylised embroidery, while the same decorative motif is repeated as a border framing each napkin.

The damask itself is unlike any I have encountered before. Rather than the more traditional floral or geometric patterns, the linen is woven throughout with an attractive arrangement of stars in varying shapes and designs. It is a distinctive and unusual pattern that makes a refreshing change from the classic damask motifs.

Each napkin measures a generous 84 cm, making them ideal for an elegant table setting.