Summary
Round Kariatilei work table cloth, made in the 1960s and given to Irene Soumilas by her parents. Irene migrated to Australia at the age of 19 in 1958 from the Greek Island of Lefkas to be married in 1959. Her dowry travelled in two trunks by ship, although she travelled by air. She also received gifts from friends and family once in Australia of textiles and clothing from Greece. The style of embroidery on this table cloth is known as Kariatilei work as it comes from the village of Karia on the Greek island of Lefkas.
Physical Description
Circular table cloth in pale yellow linen, with scalloped edges embroidered in gold thread. It features a repeating design embroidered in gold thread, consisting of a flower and cross shaped motif followed by two rows of small leaf shaped motifs. Designs incorporate embroidery, pulled and drawn threadwork.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Cultural Gifts Donation from Mrs Irene Soumilas, 21 Jan 2000
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Acknowledgement
Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program.
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Place Made
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User
Mrs Irene Soumilas, Melbourne, Greater Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1960-2000
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
1703 mm (Length), 1650 mm (Width)
Not an even circle.
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Keywords
Arranged Marriages, Domestic Life, Dowries, Glory Boxes, Greek Communities, Greek Immigration, Immigration, Manchester Furnishings, Textiles