This is a set of eight French damask napkins circa 1910/1930 in a cherry pink color with the initials LR embroidered by hand. We like the extraordinary quality of the damask, but also the color. Despite the fact that these lines are approximately 100 years old, the color is fresh and modern and looks spectacular mixed with whites, other shades of pinks, oranges, or corals.

The luxury of these linens is evident not only in the fabric, but also in the lush, high relief of the hand-embroidered initials. They are of substantial size and have an ornamental detail that is reminiscent of the color of the linen itself - cherries.

The dimensions (close to yard in width) and the quality of the linen, indicate that cost wasn't a consideration when this set was originally ordered.

Dimensions & Details

The napkins are damask.
The napkins measure 30 x 28 inches.

Origin

France.

Period

Antique/Vintage: circa 1910/30.

Condition

They are in very good condition. One area of reweaving 4mm diameter on one napkin.

About Antique Linen & Monogrammed Linen

High quality linen is amazingly durable. Don’t be afraid to use them. Here’s a few things I have learned from caring for my own collection, talking to other dealers, and reading articles by those involved in restoration. If this is your first purchase, you may be surprised to know that high quality linen does not need starch to achieve that crisp, professionally laundered look. Simply iron at the appropriate setting while damp.

A note about antique monogrammed linen - Monograms and initials served two purposes.

1) Not only are they decorative, they were also a sign of family wealth and or/nobility. Nobility especially when accompanied by a crown.

2) They also served a practical purpose. According to an expert that I encountered at antique market in Parma Italy, this type of personalization was used as a means of identification. Linens were picked up to be laundered, even in the 19th c. and one needed to be sure these items of value were returned back to their rightful owner.

Outside of the U.S.? Please contact us for a shipping quote.