Cypriot Lefkara Linen Bedding Set, Two Sheets & Two Pillowcases, circa 1930

Description and Details

A complete four-piece Cypriot linen bedding set, circa 1930, comprising two matching top sheets and two coordinating pillowcases. Entirely hand-worked on crisp white linen, the set brings together geometric Lefkara embroidery and fine needle-lace edging in a consistent design across all four pieces.

The decoration features eight-pointed stars worked in traditional Lefkaritika, also known as Lefkara lace. This historic Cypriot needlework tradition is inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising the craft and the knowledge passed between generations, rather than any individual textile.

Ground threads have been withdrawn to create openwork lattices directly within the linen. These are framed and reinforced by raised satin-stitch bands, described as kambouroto. The contrast between the open grids and the solid, raised stitching gives the geometric motifs their definition.

The deep decorative edges of both sheets and the edges of the pillowcases are finished with fine knotted pipilla needle lace, forming a delicate picot edging. These distinct techniques are an integral part of the set's character, not simply added decoration.

Each sheet measures 176 × 256cm, and each pillowcase measures 75 × 47cm. The complete matching set is in immaculate, crisp condition, with white linen and no structural damage.