8 Early Linen and possibly silk damask napkins with E.N. initials - Napkin - 75 cm - 93 cm

A Rare and Elegant Set of 8 Antique Damask Linen Napkins – E.N.

An exceptionally generous and refined set of eight antique damask linen napkins, distinguished by their unusual monograms, delicate red detailing and wonderfully supple fabric. Measuring an impressive 93 x 75 cm, these are napkins of a particularly elegant character, combining traditional craftsmanship with a decorative detail that makes them quite unlike the usual embroidered monogram.

The provenance of this set is especially dear to me. The napkins come from the château near my home in France, where I have been fortunate enough to discover some remarkable pieces of ancestral family linen over the past two years. I first set eyes on these napkins several months ago and immediately took a particular liking to them. Yet, despite never having been used by the owners, they were not quite ready to part with them. Their attachment is understandable: they are the custodians of four generations of family linen, carefully preserved and cherished over the years. Now, the time has come to release some of these treasures, albeit gradually, allowing each piece to begin a new chapter in its history.

The damask weave reveals a beautiful pattern, enhanced by the subtle interplay between the white and softer off-white tones of the fabric. The white and off white linen border shows small medallions of open irises. At the centre of each napkin sits an elegant E.N. monogram, measuring approximately 8 x 6 cm.
The napkin is framed with a wide border of Arabesque design which creates a perfect finish.

It is the remarkable execution of these initials that makes this set particularly special. Although they appear at first glance to be hand-embroidered, they are not. The initials are delicately constructed in slightly raised white embroidery, outlined with fine red detailing. Even more exquisite is the treatment of the stem of the letter N, one of which is beautifully wrapped in red yarn. Each initial is accompanied by a large, open floral bloom, adding a graceful decorative touch to the monogram.

The napkins are hand-hemmed on two sides, while the remaining two retain their original selvedges, a lovely reminder of traditional linen-making practices.

The fabric itself is remarkably supple, with an almost silky handle. I strongly suspect that silk may be present in the weave, although this has not been confirmed.

Sets of eight in such generous dimensions, with this distinctive combination of damask, raised monograms and fine red detailing, are seldom encountered. These are not simply practical table linens, but pieces with character, provenance and a story to tell.

A rare opportunity to give this beautiful château set a new life, allowing these treasured napkins to grace an elegant table once again and be appreciated for generations to come.