“Spot'd” handkerchiefs, such as our Aubergine & Red Spotted Handkerchief, appear frequently throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries. They are described in shop advertisements and runaway ads, and shown in genre paintings. Originally made by “tie & dye” method in India, English dyers sought to duplicate the popular style which made for lively patterns at minimal cost. The spots in this handkerchief were derived through blocking with paste or wax. This slightly more complex pattern has been resisted and dyed twice producing the 3 color design.
The pattern for the Aubergine & Red Spotted Handkerchief is inspired by and based on two original identical handkerchiefs, both having been purchased in Rhode Island in the last quarter of the 18th century. This pattern is found in contemporary art, and survives in the collection of the V & A Museum.
Our Aubergine & Red Spotted Handkerchief
- Measures approximately 36 inches square.
- 100% hand loomed cotton mull.
- Hand printed and hand finished.
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