Leaves and Lampasse

The apron shows detailed leaf tendrils framed in contrast by the Lampasse in genuine, hand-set block printing on pure silk. The ribbon is presented in dupion silk. Thanks to the true handwork, every model becomes a one-off in its own right.

Hand printing

A hand-printing technique for textiles has been known since the 18th century. Its basis is the Model, a solid wooden block into which the block cutter drives fine brass pins according to the motif. In demanding handwork, the negative of the coveted motifs is created in this way. Clamping the fabric correctly, inking the Model carefully and finally placing it on the fabric with precision are what make up the skill of a true master hand printer. A slight offset in the pattern, the so-called Modelzaumstond, proves the authenticity of the hand printing and makes every garment a one-off. The valuable Model blocks were mostly passed on from generation to generation, yet motifs are lost again and again. Every surviving, unforgotten motif is therefore all the more valuable. Gössl has devoted itself to the uniqueness of the patterns themselves and has digitised them. In this way the old motifs are preserved and can at the same time be shown creatively in new proportions.