Shamrock whitework embroidery threadwork linen pillow cover or tablecloth antique hc2099

This is a very beautifully embroidered pillow cover or face that could also be used as a large table mat or centerpiece. It is made of fine old linen and embroidered in whitework with sprays of shamrocks in each corner. The cover has extensive threadwork framing the center panel. The piece measures 17.5 x 26 inches.

The problems are a tiny pin hole (see pic) and about a 3 inch section of the threadwork is deteriorating. Neither of these areas detract from the beauty of this cover.

If you are too young to know what a pillow cover is, they predated pillow shams. After making the bed the covers were placed on top of the bed pillows to dress them up. Easy to whisk off at night.