Tablecover 1817 - 1820

This linen tablecover was made in the early nineteenth century by Jane Simonton Chapman, and it's a wonderful example of the textiles that would have been a central part of domestic life. It’s made using a weaving technique called ‘double cloth’, where two layers of fabric are interwoven to create a reversible design. This technique demands time, skill and patience, highlighting the labor involved in creating these household items. The pattern, created by interlocking geometric motifs, speaks to the importance of design even in utilitarian objects. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, the tablecover also tells a story about social context. Linen, a common material at the time, would have been produced through a complex system of agriculture, processing, and trade. By exploring the craftsmanship and materiality of this tablecover, we gain insights into the values, skills, and economy of the period. It blurs the line between fine art and craft, reminding us of the artistry embedded in everyday life.