Size: 84 inches x 68 inches (Full Banquet Size - Seats 8-10)
Condition: Very Good Vintage (Faint storage spots; see photos/description)
Motif: Twin Imperial Dragons & Traditional "Full Circle" Blessings
Origin: Authentic Swatow (Shantou) Handwork
This stunning mid-century tablecloth is a premier example of Swatow (Shantou) embroidery, an art form famous for blending intricate European-style lace techniques with traditional Chinese motifs. Handcrafted for the export market, this piece represents hundreds of hours of skilled needlework.
Central Motif: Two large, magnificently detailed Imperial Dragons facing one another. They are rendered in high-relief satin stitching and fine stem-stitch detailing.
The Four Blessings: This cloth features the rare and highly auspicious "Fu Lu Shou Quan" (福禄寿全) character set in the corners. This represents a "Full Circle of Blessings": Fortune, Prosperity, Longevity, and Completeness.
Artistry: The piece features extensive drawn-thread work, cutwork lace, and delicate floral "windows" throughout the borders.
Size: Approximately 68 inches x 78 inches (Ideal for a standard 6-foot dining table).
Material: High-quality, crisp vintage white linen (likely grass linen/ramie).
Era: Mid-20th Century (Circa 1940s–1950s).
Overall: Very Good Vintage Condition. The linen remains bright, strong, and crisp.
Details: All hand-stitched "bridges" in the lace work appear intact.
Notes on Age: As is common with authentic vintage linens, there are a few faint yellow storage spots (foxing). I have chosen to leave the item in its original "as-found" state and have not attempted to bleach or professionally clean it to preserve its integrity. Please see the close-up photos for a detailed view of these spots.
Please review all photos carefully using the zoom feature, as they are part of the description. This is a beautiful collector's piece sold in its current vintage state.