Details
Description
An Estate Sale Discovery
Recently, we were privileged to attend an extraordinary estate sale in Hudson, New York—the summer retreat …
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An Estate Sale Discovery
Recently, we were privileged to attend an extraordinary estate sale in Hudson, New York—the summer retreat of an old Manhattan family whose gracious home was destined for renovation. The inheritors, understanding the value of preserving beautiful things, invited collectors to acquire pieces that had graced their family's life for generations.
Among the treasures we carefully selected and brought back to our shop was this remarkable set of four circa 1930s cotton pillowcases, each telling its own story of an era when even sleep was elevated by beautiful linens.
The Collection
Set of Four Pillowcases, Circa 1930
Two monogrammed examples showcasing period embroidery techniques
Two featuring exquisite cutwork along the hem—a time-intensive technique creating delicate openwork patterns
Dimensions: 31" x 21" (perfectly sized for modern standard pillows)
Material: Fine cotton with exceptional hand and drape
Condition: Estate-fresh with the patina of gentle use and careful storage
The Art of 1930s Linens
The 1930s represented a golden age of domestic refinement, when American families—particularly those with summer homes in the Hudson Valley—invested in linens that would last generations. These pillowcases embody that philosophy: substantial enough for nightly use, yet so beautifully detailed they transform the simple act of sleep into a luxurious ritual.
The cutwork technique, requiring hours of careful hand-stitching, creates intricate patterns that seem to float along the hem. Combined with the monogrammed pair, this set offers a fascinating study in the decorative techniques that defined sophisticated household linens of the era.
Styling & Use
For the Collector: Display the cutwork examples to showcase this disappearing art form
For the Romantic: Use all four to create a dreamy, vintage-inspired bedroom
For the Entertainer: Reserve for your most special guest room
For the Purist: Enjoy them as intended—these pillowcases will elevate your nightly routine
The neutral palette and timeless techniques make them perfect for:
Traditional bedrooms seeking authentic period pieces
French country or English cottage aesthetics
Modern spaces where vintage textiles add warmth and history
Guest rooms where thoughtful details make visitors feel cherished
Estate Provenance
There's something deeply moving about acquiring pieces from a family's summer sanctuary—objects that witnessed decades of peaceful mornings, afternoon naps, and restful nights. This Hudson Valley provenance adds immeasurable value, connecting you to the gracious lifestyle of a bygone era.
Care & Legacy
These pillowcases have survived nearly a century through careful stewardship. Continue their legacy with gentle hand washing in cool water, line drying in shade, and storing with acid-free tissue. With proper care, they'll grace your home for generations to come.
Set of Four Pillowcases
Dimensions: 31" L x 21" W each
Materials: Fine cotton with monogramming and cutwork details
Period: Circa 1930
Origin: Hudson Valley, New York estate
Condition: Excellent estate condition with gentle use patina
Part of our carefully curated Hudson Valley estate acquisition. Each piece selected for exceptional quality and provenance.
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- Dimensions
- 32ʺW × 20.25ʺD × 22ʺH
- Styles
- Art Nouveau
- French
- Pattern
- Geometric
- Bed Pillow Size
- Standard
- Period
- Early 20th Century
- Country of Origin
- France
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Cotton
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- White
- Condition Notes
- Supple,Stylish and Ready to Serve Supple,Stylish and Ready to Serve less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.