Vingerdoek van linnendamast met motief Naaldenveld, dessin 607 c. 1900 - 1925

This linen damask cloth, designed by Chris Lebeau, presents a subtle yet evocative pattern known as 'Naaldenveld,' or 'Needle Field.' These stylized needles, reminiscent of sharp, slender leaves or perhaps even thorns, are densely arranged across the fabric, creating a field of abstract forms. Consider how similar motifs appear in ancient mythologies, where thorny plants symbolize protection, boundaries, or even pain. Think of the crown of thorns in Christian iconography, or the protective thickets in fairy tales. These sharp forms evoke a sense of caution and resilience. The 'Needle Field' also brings to mind the collective memory of natural defenses and survival, resonating with the subconscious human experience of navigating a world filled with potential threats. This powerful visual symbol has a cyclical progression, resurfacing across various cultural contexts, evolving, and accumulating new layers of meaning throughout history.