Madeira Linens
I have a weakness for beautiful Madeira table linens. The embroidery work coming out of the Portuguese Island of Madeira is really like no other! It was first discovered in 1850 when an Englishwoman was impressed with the hand-work of the Portuguese pheasant ladies and took trunks of it back to England. It became the epitome of luxury to have your trousseau made in Madeira!
Linen houses came to life as the embroidery work became popular. Some specialized in shadow work and others were known for their detailed and precise stitching. Founded in the 1930s, Marghab was certainly the most well known as they used the finest linens from Ireland and threads from France.
I’ve just added a collection of vintage Lily of the Valley design placemats and napkins to my house! I can’t wait to use them!
If you want to know more, click here to read a wonderful article by French Garden & House.
One of my favorite on-line resources to buy from is Things Most Delightful but I’ve also linked some beautiful vintage options here.
Do you have any lily of valley doilies/linens? Cost?
I’ve been looking for lily of valley doilies such as depicted above. Sheer linen.
I believe the items above have sold but I’ll let you know if I ever see more!