Flea Market Item 26-291

These are a charming matched pair of fine white linen handkerchiefs, probably made in France and dating to the Edwardian period through the early interwar years (c. 1905–1925). 

Their refined embroidery and delicate drawn-thread work suggest they were intended as ladies’ dress handkerchiefs or a special gift set rather than everyday household linens.

Each handkerchief measures approximately 36×36cm and is made from a very fine, lightweight linen with a soft sheen. The hems are narrowly hand-rolled and neatly stitched, reflecting the quality expected of luxury handkerchiefs.

The decoration is restrained yet elegant, featuring:

• A graceful embroidered ribbon bow with flowing tails.

• Delicate floral vine embroidery worked in satin stitch.

• Tiny embroidered French knots scattered around the motif.

• A corner border of drawn-thread work (jours) accented with small embroidered rosettes.

This style of decoration was extremely fashionable in France during the Belle Époque and early 20th century, when understated white-on-white embroidery symbolised refinement.