Product description
This historical fabric is a reproduction of a Venetian damask. Its typical Renaissance pattern features ovals framed in a wreath of leaves repeated at regular intervals. In each field there is a diamond ring emerging from a crown out of which three pears are growing. This motif was very popular in the 16th and into the 17th century.
One theory postulates that the pattern was designed for the Medicis, one of whose symbols is a diamond ring, on the occasion of a wedding with another family whose crest included three pears (the Italian word for pear is pera, so it may have been the Peruzzi, Peri, or some other family). Later the pattern came into common use and became widespread.
The preserved original can be seen today at the Metropolitan Museum in New York.
Like brocade, damask is a fabric where the pattern is woven in. The technique, known as early as the middle ages, relies on the visual contrast of different weaves. The fabric is densely woven of fine silk and cotton threads, making a high level of detail possible. Damask is smooth, with a slight sheen, soft to the touch and breathable.
Reproductions of period fabrics such as this are perfect for sewing historical costumes and also bring something special to modern interiors or contemporary fashions.
Under damask we recommend using a silk lining, such as habotai or voile.
Care
We recommend dry cleaning this fabric at a reliable dry cleaner. In our tests of how to wash silk this fabric stood up to gentle hand washing. If you risk hand washing, use lukewarm water and a delicate detergent for woolens; do not wring or squeeze dry; block dry on a flat surface. Dry iron on the back on the lowest setting.
