Printed Delaines c. 1937

Martha Reed rendered these printed delaines, perhaps as textile designs, during the late 19th or early 20th century. What strikes me is the fragmented, almost archaeological presentation of these fabrics. Each square is bisected, presenting a dual nature – a dialectic between patterns. Consider the motif of the vine, present in several samples. We see this reaching tendril across cultures and epochs, from ancient Greek pottery to the tapestries of the Middle Ages. It symbolizes growth, connection, and even intoxication. This symbol isn't merely decorative; it taps into our primal understanding of nature’s bounty and our yearning for abundance. Think of the emotional resonance of textiles themselves. They are intimate objects, literally enveloping us, carrying the scent and touch of loved ones. These delaines, then, are not just patterns but fragments of human experience, resonating with our collective memories. The patterns capture the non-linear flow of history, always looping back on itself.