1950s Laura Ashley scarf *Help!*

[Georgina Powell]

Hello!

I recently acquired what I believe to be a 1950s Laura Ashley scarf (see pics). The only other example of a scarf from this period that I have been able to find is the Pelham scarf. The Pelham scarf is marked 'ashley' compared to my 'laura ashley'. I am aware of a 1950s penny farthing place mat which bears the same signature as my scarf

Any and all information on Laura Ashley in the 1950s, particularly regarding her scarves, would be so helpful. Also any information on the print, if anyone has seen it before

Unfortunately I don't have great provenance. It came from an elderly wealthy lady in Winchester and that's about all I know!

To no avail, I have contacted the John Lewis archives as I am aware Laura Ashley made her first sale of scarves to them and I have contacted an archivist at Laura Ashley

I have been told there is an early photograph of Laura Ashley which shows evidence of more 50s scarves in the background. If anyone has seen/has a copy of this photograph I would love to see!

Thank you

 

[The Vintage Vendeuse]

What size is it and what is it made of?
The photos make it appear to be cotton or linen? According to THIS and THIS, the original 1954 red Pelham scarf talked about with "ashley" in the corner was made of silk. The print was re-released in 2013, as a silk scarf as well as home furnishings. If your item is cotton/linen, could it be a dinner napkin?
And can you point us to the "laura ashley" marked placemat you mention? I didn't know the company was identified as "laura" ashley back in the 50s... it was a husband-and-wife operation. But I'm no expert on the brand, LOL.

(EDIT: Wikipedia says, "...she began designing headscarves, napkins, table mats and tea-towels which Bernard printed on a machine he had designed in their attic flat at 83 Cambridge Street, Pimlico, London. The couple had invested £10 in wood for the screen frame, dyes and a few yards of linen". This source doesn't mention silk. Wikipedia also says: "The company was originally registered as Ashley Mountney (Laura's maiden name), but Bernard changed the name to Laura Ashley because he felt a woman's name was more appropriate for the type of products they were producing.")

 

[Georgina Powell]

What size is it and what is it made of?
The photos make it appear to be cotton or linen? According to THIS and THIS, the original 1954 red Pelham scarf talked about with "ashley" in the corner was made of silk. The print was re-released in 2013, as a silk scarf as well as home furnishings. If your item is cotton/linen, could it be a dinner napkin from the newer range?
And can you point us to the "laura ashley" marked placemat you mention? I didn't know the company was identified as "laura" ashley back in the 50s... it was a husband-and-wife operation. But I'm no expert on the brand, LOL.

Hi, it is cotton and 19" square. I have attached pictures of the placemat which was in the Laura Ashley exhibition, although not the best quality sorry. Yes I am aware they weren't under the Laura Ashley name in that time but an archivist has told me pieces were signed both Ashley and Laura Ashley throughout the 50s

 

[The Vintage Vendeuse]

Thanks for your prompt reply. This has been an interesting rabbit hole for me.
Hopefully, someone with real knowledge can help you soon!

 

[Georgina Powell]

Thanks for your prompt reply. This has been an interesting rabbit hole for me.
Hopefully, someone with real knowledge can help you soon!

Thank you for interest and for helping so far! Interesting that the latest source you posted doesn't mention silk