FRENCH VICTORIAN TABLE LINEN (19) - Linen, Silk - Early 20th century

This is a magnificent and rare set of table linen with 18 serviettes. The table linen dates from the early 1900s and was especially commissioned in Lyon for the then owners of the chateau near Brantôme. They needed a table linen to fit their 4 meter long table. We were able to trace the provenance with the present ancestors in their "up to date" inventory book. The last time the linen was used was in December 1965 and since then has been carefully wrapped in one of the 4 linen armoires! There obviously must have been matching serviettes, but these were nowhere to be found . As it happens I found in the stockroom 18 serviettes which are a perfect match. The embroidery is remarkable almost the same and both the table linen and napkins have a identical G's The napkin's initials are G. E. and measure 70X85 cm and are framed with very generous "ajour" - open Venise thread work. The table linen has a large G. and a smaller G ( stand for Gilbert - Georgina, the then owners) intricately and superbly embroidered on both ends. There are 3 small bunches of grapes adorning the initials obviously a sign of "Love and affection. ) The top of the linen is dotted with snow flakes. The edges have continual ribbons of "holly" with their red berries which is repeated at the borders , but on a much wider scale. We have taken 50 photos early this morning to get the maximum effect with the design, so please study each one. These lengths of table linen are almost impossible to find now and are cut up to make shorter lengths and also to make napkins which is so sad. A 4 meter long table will sit 18 persons. The table decked is 3m50 long and could have seated 14 persons comfortably. ( 6 either side and 2 at both ends) A wonderful set of table linen to possess.