Fugle i træ - doily / napkin - Else Thordur Hansen (ETH)

Fugle i træ - doily / napkin - Else Thordur Hansen (ETH)

This doily / napkin featuring Birds in Tree is a classic and atmospheric design in which Else Thordur Hansen combines figurative elements with a strict, ornamental idiom. The motif is centred around a stylised tree, with four birds calmly perched on its branches. The composition is symmetrically constructed, creating a balanced and harmonious expression.

The tree’s simple trunk and branches form a clear structure to which the birds relate through their placement. The birds are rendered in calm blue and violet tones with fine green details that add depth and variation. Small star motifs scattered around the tree introduce lightness and rhythm, giving the design a subtle, almost poetic quality.

The surrounding border is built from repeated geometric forms in shades of blue. It frames the motif precisely and reinforces the overall impression without drawing attention away from the central image. The interplay between the figurative centre and the strict frame is characteristic of the embroidery design of the period and gives the doily / napkin a timeless appeal.

The colour palette is restrained and well balanced. The cool blue tones stand out clearly against the light background, lending the motif clarity and calm. Danish Flower Thread provides a matte surface in which the colours appear soft and lively. On linen 12B, the stitches are finely defined, supporting both the delicate details and the larger areas.

In use, the doily / napkin functions as a decorative element on the table, in a display cabinet, or as part of a collection of smaller embroideries. Within a range, Birds in Tree represents a classic motif with strong recognisability and historical anchoring. For retailers, it is an appealing design that speaks to customers with an interest in Nordic embroidery traditions, figurative motifs and carefully executed craftsmanship.