Edwardian Linen Tablecloth with Pictorial Needle Lace, circa 1910

Description and Details

An Edwardian fine white linen tablecloth, circa 1910, combining hand embroidery with pictorial needle-lace inserts. Large cartouches arranged at the corners and sides contain flower baskets and stylised festive bells, suspended within hand-knotted hexagonal needle-lace mesh.

The inserts are framed by Richelieu cutwork, trailing foliate scrolls in satin stitch and narrow openwork paths. A hand-rolled hem and hand-tied needle-lace picot edging complete the cloth.

An example of early 20th-century missionary-influenced artisan whitework, bringing together decorative embroidery and needle-lace techniques within a symmetrical design. It is in immaculate, crisp condition, with no broken bars, wear or staining, and measures 116cm square.