This is a late XIXth Century, rather heavy pure linen bed linen. The large initials at 14.5cm long have been embroidered and outlined first in high relief and thereafter filled in with "pinhead embroidery". Each initial carries a posy of stems & flowers. This would , no doubt, have been a marriage linen and for the honey moon period only and thereafter would disappear into the dowry ( trousseaux )armoire. These special linen would almost considered to be sacred and would only be taken out for very special occasions such as the birth of a child, wedding anniversaries and special birthdays. Both families would have been occupied for months prior to the wedding to complete the dowry and if by any chance they could not meet the date, the nuns and sisters from the local Holy Religious Order would be called in and assist with the finishing touches. They were specialised in fine embroidery ,lace making and application. As you will note there is beautiful arabesque embroidery on the scallops and above are sprigs with further floral decorations. A rare piece of bed linen and to be cherished once again.