This is a fabulous hand embroidered set of four placemats and four napkins for a total of 8 pieces. They depict a lobster with lemons and some greenery and a beautifully embroidered scalloped border. The set has been in the owners collection for over 25 years and has never been used. Initially one napkin was laundered to remove a storage stain. This same napkin has some shadow staining in the folded corner and shows wrinkles. There are some other storage stains noted and shown with straight pins as can be seen in the photos. These pieces still retain that “new” feel with the original sizing (except for the one nap previously laundered). The mats measure approximately 18 and 1/4 inches by approximately 12 and 3/8 inches. The napkins are approximately 16 and 1/2 inches by about 16 and 1/4 inches.
The embroiderers on the island of Madeira Portugal were highly skilled and were paid by the stitch and it is now a dwindling or dying art but just beautiful work. Just noticed I took some mat pictures likely upside down.
Please message with questions. Note I recycle boxes and other shipping supplies whenever possible. Thank you for looking.