Mary Goodin’s Hand-Worked Linens
A few days ago we had a wonderful visit with Ms. Mary Goodin who generously donated a sizeable amount of beautiful, hand-crafted items from her large collection.
This 90” x 80” hand worked white floral embroidered bedspread is the first item pictured. It is in good shape with a few minor holes and stains. The large center floral pattern is worked with carefully created French knots of varied sizes and corded stitches. Smaller patterns similar in design to the center cascade down either lower corner of the spread. An interesting detail is the cutouts on the bottom end of the spread designed to go around bedposts.
Second is an eye-catching 75” x 22” white floral embroidered dresser runner was crafted to match the bed spread. The runner is embroidered with different sized French knots and carefully worked corded flowers. For its age it is in very good condition.
The third item truly had us scratching our heads until our volunteer, Clarice Jones, discovered information that gave the item concrete meaning. Looking at it with little knowledge, it resembled a shoe rack, complete with tiny holes at either top corner where it may have hung from a wall or door. However, we were puzzled that each row contained three pockets. Why would a shoe holder have an odd number of pockets? With diligence, Clarice determined the rack was for shoes, but a specific type – slippers – which would be included as a pair in each one of the holders. This items is likewise hand crafted with the backing resembling a simple tea towel. A matching towel has been sewn into place, shaped as pockets to form the two rows of slipper holders.
We thank Ms. Goodin for her generous contributions and Clarice for her great sleuthing and accessioning skills.
