Panel of Wool Furnishing Damask

Damask is a weave structure in which the contrast of textures reveals the design woven into the fabric. Damask made of shiny silk is still used today for upholstery in formal interiors. Wool damask is less common today, but in the 18th century it was also used as an upholstery fabric for expensive furniture, particularly in England and America. The city of Norwich was an important center for wool weaving, and was known for the vivid colors that local dyers achieved, like the cherry red of this example.