We’d like to share the background of a beautiful set of table linens embroidered in the 1950s on Lefkada, one of the Ionian Islands. This banquet tablecloth and napkin set in the HACCM collection is embroidered in the “Karsaniko” method, which was developed in the late 1800s by Maria Stavraka. Maria created this one-handed stitching technique out of necessity, due to her limited dexterity after a childhood injury. Inspired by designs in nature, Maria skillfully developed her precise technique and taught it to the local women of Karya (and at least one man, war veteran Argyris Stavrakas). The style spread in popularity throughout Europe, creating a valuable source of income when textile orders poured into the island from the Greek royal household and beyond. The Folklore Museum of Lefkadian Embroidery currently displays Karsaniko embroidery, which was registered in the Greek National Register of Intangible
Cultural Heritage in 2019. Modern artists keep the prized tradition alive by incorporating these geometric motifs in jewelry and accessory designs. Thank you to Demetris and Christine Stavrakas for this wonderful addition to the HACCM collection.
