The intricately woven designs of damask table linens epitomized luxury in the eighteenth century. This example, which features a grand bouquet surrounded by florid, meandering vines, was likely among the "19 fine damask Table Cloths" listed in the inventory of household goods taken after George Washington's death. While the tablecloth provided protective covering during the main course of a meal, it was afterwards removed and the dessert course presented on the polished surface of the table.