Servet met het familiewapen Van der Dussen 1870

This is a linen damask napkin, 115 by 85 cm, made by Firma J. Maas. Its all-over white colour and folded form create a sense of understated elegance. Looking closely, we see the subtle variations in the woven pattern. These intricate designs function as signs, communicating wealth, taste and lineage. The Van der Dussen family crest repeats across the fabric, reinforcing identity through visual representation. The material itself—fine linen—speaks to both the artistry and the economic power of its owners. The napkin’s rectangular shape provides a structured framework for the ornate details within. This interplay between rigid form and decorative elements can be interpreted through a structuralist lens, as a reflection of social order and personal expression. Ultimately, the napkin’s visual language invites us to consider how everyday objects embody and transmit cultural values.