Imagine a dining table, decorated with a unique table runner rich in history and culture. This isn’t just silk fabric—it’s a collection of stories and legacy. In this blog, we’ll dive into the history of a silk table runner made from cigarette silk inserts from the early 20th century, featuring flags from around the world.
From Cigarette Promotions to Home Decor: The Story of Silk Table Runners
This particular table runner is a remarkable home craft creation composed of silk cigarette inserts. Measuring 175 cm x 27.5 cm, it features a patchwork of delicately printed flags stitched into damask silk backing. The silk inserts were promotional items distributed by tobacco companies during the early 20th century and were most likely issued in Europe.
This table runner reflects the creativity of its maker and highlights the surprising role silk cigarette inserts played in textile history. With minimal signs of wear, it remains in excellent condition, offering a glimpse into a fascinating era of craftsmanship.
The Role of Flags in Cigarette Silks and Collectibles
At the heart of this masterpiece are the flags. During the early 1900s, tobacco companies would include silk inserts depicting various themes, such as national flags, emblems, flowers, and animals. These inserts were promotional “giveaways,” intended as collectibles.
Flags played a major role because they represented identity, history, and nationalism. Not all flags represented countries; some, such as the Royal Standard of Scotland or Australia’s Red Cross Saint George flag, depicted specific historical or cultural symbols.
One striking detail on this table runner is the Moroccan “scissor flag,” used between 1350 and 1895, which featured two crossed yatagan swords. The design, interpreted by Europeans as resembling a pair of scissors, is a fascinating glimpse into how symbols are perceived differently across cultures. The inclusion of such rare and unique flags makes this table runner even more extraordinary.
The Legacy of Cigarette Silks in Textile History
Cigarette silks originated as a marketing tool in the early 20th century. From 1905 to 1917 in America, and slightly later in Europe, tobacco companies inserted these small textile pieces into cigarette packets. The practice aimed to engage male smokers who would pass the silks on to women in their households, often as gifts or to be sewn into decorative textiles.
The themes of cigarette silks were broad and varied, including:
- Flags and emblems
- Florals and clan tartans
- Army and naval badges
- Religious imagery
- Sports and art-themed designs
By the First World War, British tobacco companies also adopted silk inserts, even maintaining production despite paper restrictions announced in 1917. After the war, the practice waned, though there was a brief resurgence in the early 1930s. The trend later faded out entirely, leaving behind a fascinating collectible for enthusiasts of “tobacciana” (tobacco-related memorabilia).
The Craftsmanship Behind the Table Runner
This table runner stands out not only because of the individual silk flags but also due to its clever design. The cream-coloured damask silk provides a classy backdrop that highlights the bright colours of the flag inserts. Its size and layout show careful planning and expert craftsmanship.