Table Cover (Italy), 18th century

Oblong cover of cream-colored linen embroidred in colored silks and gold thread. Trimmed with a narrow silver lace edge. Corner designs of conventionalized flower sprays with rose or carnation as main flower. Center design of four similar flower sprays springing in cruciform arrangement from center, where a bird with spread wings and crest is seen in profile. If peacock, possibly a symbol of immortality. Border of conventionalized vine, small flowers and strawberries. Pattern arrangement and type of flowers suggest piece was made for liturgical use.