Georgian Irish Linen Press, mahogany with a single drawer, made by Richard Baker, Millwright, Press & Tobacco Engine maker, 65, Fore Street, Cripplegate, London. A plaque to the cross bar engraved with the owner's name; Samuel Lyle, Londonderry.
H:53.25 in x w:27.5 in x d:16 in
From the early 18th century, Irish linen was duty-free to England and to British Plantations in America. By the end of the 18th century linen accounted for about half of Ireland's total exports. A good way to keep your best white cloths and napkins was in a fine piece of furniture, such as this press, often called a napkin press. Following its use, linen had a slight sheen and the folds became emphasised. It followed that folding linen neatly and in a regular pattern would produce decorative folds, thus retunring a tablecloth to the press after a meal was considered important. Instructions concerning this matter were still included in Victorian servants' advice manuals.
In 1806 Samuel Lyle of the Oaks Lodge, County Londonderry, held the office of High Sheriff of Fermanagh.
Item Code: 4149
£ 1950
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