Eng-nellikerod (E) – placemat – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)

Eng-nellikerod (E) – placemat – Gerda Bengtsson (GB)

This placemat is decorated with a delicate embroidery of meadow avens, presented as a botanical motif where the entire plant is shown from root to flower. The motif is positioned along the left side of the placemat, creating an elegant and natural expression while the open linen surface around the plant adds calmness to the table setting.

At the base of the motif the plant’s root spreads into several fine branches in warm earthy tones. Above the root a cluster of green leaves unfolds. The leaves are lobed and softly rounded in shape, forming a lush base around the plant.

From this group of leaves two long, slender stems rise upward through the design. The stems are embroidered in warm reddish-brown tones that contrast gently with the green foliage. Along the stems small side leaves interrupt the long vertical lines and add variation to the plant’s form.

At the top of the stems several small flowers hang from curved stalks. The flowers face downward and are embroidered in deep reddish-brown shades with light yellow centres. Their bell-like shape gives the motif a gentle sense of movement. On one stem an upright seed head is also shown, where fine seed filaments spread outward to form a small golden crown.

The embroidery is worked in cross stitch with Danish Flower Thread on linen. The fine stitches highlight the plant’s details and give structure to the leaves, flowers and roots. A green border frames the placemat and completes the design with a calm and classic balance.

The result is a refined botanical embroidery in which the delicate form and warm colours of meadow avens add an elegant and handcrafted character to the table setting.

About Haandarbejdets Fremme

Haandarbejdets Fremme has been a central part of Danish embroidery tradition since 1928. The association is known for its designs in which plants and flowers from Nordic nature are rendered with precision and respect for their natural forms.

Gerda Bengtsson is one of the most influential designers in the history of Haandarbejdets Fremme. Her embroidery designs are inspired by plants found in nature and are characterised by harmonious colours, clear forms and a timeless aesthetic that continues to be appreciated by embroiderers today.