Mock Flock Border

Found in the 1768 Jeremiah Lee Mansion in Marblehead, Massachusetts, this border was originally hung with a color coordinated, rococo foliate sidewall pattern. It is narrow, as is typical of 1760s borders, and features a white diaper fill intended to imitate lacework. The dark leaves, printed in contrast to the lighter ground, are intended to mimic flocking. These “mock flock” papers were less expensive versions of flocked wallpapers, in which wool fibers were adhered to a design printed with varnish. One of the earliest styles of wallpaper, flocked paper itself was developed to resemble even more costly velvet damasks.