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Cynthia’s Antique & Vintage Linens
Extremely Important "Named" Linen Damask Banquet Tablecloth, "The Senses" by Arts and Crafts artist, Walter Crane This exceptionally fine antique white linen damask tablecloth was woven with classical figures illustrating the five senses. The beautiful figures are enclosed within a border of animals, leaves and shells and the words "hear", "see", "smell", "taste", and "touch" inscribed within scrolls. In one corner is an embroidered inscription reading "Pearson" centered beneath the family crest, an ermine holding a ball above half rays of the sun. The family crest is small on this large cloth, but it is masterfully embroidered. The fabric is dense, satiny linen. It is bright white, but not blindingly "blue" white. I darkened the photos to show the breathtaking pattern. It is an astonishingly beautiful piece. The woven pattern features an astounding variety of figures and fauna. There are peacocks with flowing tail feathers, leaping deer, pheasant, rabbits or hares, dolphins, wild boar, winged sea-horses (hippocampi) and goats, which are nibbling on oak leaves and acorns. The figures are also beautiful and astonishing in their variety and beauty, including satyrs and angels dressed classically, mythologically and medievally. It measures 90x144". It was based on a Walter Crane (1845-1915) watercolor and was manufactured by John Wilson and Sons. The drawing is exceptionally beautiful and the quality of the weaving is phenomenal. It was shown at 1893 Arts and Crafts Exhibition. It is a work of art. The condition is superb. c.1890. There were two identical cloths. Copyright 2008 Cynthia Cooper, Main Street Antiques Contact: cynthia@antique-linens.com |
