Set of 6 Antique French Linen Damask Table Toppers/ Cabaret Cloths with MD Monogram, c. 1900

A set of six antique French linen cabaret cloths, circa 1900, each measuring 79 × 86.5 cm (31 × 34 inches). It is a generous, useful size: the cloths sit well as toppers on a small table or dresser, or as tray cloths for a tea service. Each has a fine plain-weave linen centre with an interlocking double monogram, MD, worked in flat satin stitch, framed by a twin-crescent cartouche with a dotted point de sable ground and acanthus leaf flourishes. The centre is bordered by a wide woven linen damask band of laurel garlands with scrolling acanthus at the corners, framed by two concentric bands of hand-pulled drawn-thread work, with a tiny needle-woven lace wheel at each corner. The cloths are finished with wide folded hems, neatly mitred corners, and a hemstitched outer edge. All six are in excellent, crisp condition. The linen is white and strong across the set, the drawn-thread bands keep their alignment, and I can find no broken bars, fraying, storage stains, thinning or old repairs.