CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN

Moiré Silk

Moiré silk is distinguished by its characteristic rippled or watermarked appearance. The effect is produced through a finishing process known as calendering, in which the fabric is passed between heated rollers under pressure. This compresses and slightly distorts the ribbed weave, creating variations in the way the surface reflects light.

Within antique boxes and dressing cases, moiré silk was used for wall and tray linings, document compartments and the interiors of concealed letter wallets. Its reflective surface added visual depth and contrast to fitted interiors while remaining soft enough to protect delicate contents.

Asprey rosewood jewellery box with its removable blue moiré-silk lined letter wallet displayed outside the box.
Asprey Antique Jewellery Box in Rosewood. VIEW THIS BOX →
Blue moiré silk from an Asprey antique jewellery box.
Blue moiré silk from an Asprey antique jewellery box.
Front right interior view of the amboyna jewellery box showing the green moiré silk lining and free-standing mirror on display.
Antique Jewellery Box in Amboyna, by Howell, James & Co. VIEW THIS BOX →
Moiré silk lining from a Howell, James & Co. jewellery box.
Antique moiré silk lining from a Howell, James & Co. jewellery box.
Antique Jewellery Box in Coromandel with Cantilever Mechanism.
Antique Jewellery Box in Coromandel with Cantilever Mechanism. VIEW THIS BOX →
Purple moiré silk from an antique jewellery box in coromandel with cantilever mechanism.
Purple moiré silk from an antique jewellery box in coromandel with cantilever mechanism.

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