Textile Sample thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

Textile Sample

1929-30 (made)
Artist/Maker
Old Bleach Linen (manufacturer)
Place of origin
Northern Ireland (made)

Folded sample card of six permanent shade half-bleach linen swatches with printed description


Object details

Category
Textiles
Object type
Textile sample
Materials and techniques
card with linen
Card
Linen
Printed
Woven
Brief description
Sample card with swatch, 1929-1930, Northern Ireland, Old Bleach Linen Company Limited
Physical description
Folded sample card of six permanent shade half-bleach linen swatches with printed description
Dimensions
  • Height: 12.2cm
  • Width: 7.2cm
7.2 x 14.5 when sample card is open to linen swatches
Production typeMass produced
Marks and inscriptions
  • 'Old Bleach' permanent shade half-bleach linens. These linens being guaranteed absolutely fast in shade, represent something quite new (Retailer's identification; English; Front of sample; printed)
  • 'Old Bleach' permanent shade half-bleach linens. Half-Bleach Linens are at present particularly popular for many purposes, including needlework. The objection to them has always been that they so quickly lose their beauty and wash out to a bad white. To meet this objection, the 'Old Bleach' Linen Co. has brought out a range that has been made absolutely permanent in tone - nothing can alter them. These linens are guaranteed in exactly the same manner as 'Old Bleach' fast-dyed coloured linens. (Retailer's identification; English; Reverse of sample)
Credit line
Given by Mrs Gillian Fox
Historical context
The Old Bleach Linen Company was established in Randalstown in 1864. The company's move to the town was influenced by the water from the River Maine, the strong tradition of cottage weaving in the area and the American Civil War giving a boost to the linen industry. The Old Bleach Linen Company provided tableware to royalty and the famously impressive dining rooms of the Cunard Line.
Production
Reason For Production: Retail
Collection
Textiles and Fashion Collection
Accession number
T.226:1-1999

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Record createdJanuary 20, 2004
Record URL
https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O89760/textile-sample-old-bleach-linen/
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