Linoleum design samples
Object No. 2010/76/1
Since the British arrived in Australia many different floor coverings have been used in homes, ranging from earthen floors and matting to luxury carpets. Oil cloths were widely used in the nineteenth century, however they were superseded by the more durable linoleum by the start of the twentieth century. Linoleum was invented by Frederick Walton in 1860 in England. Linoleum was made from linseed oil, cork dust, tree resin, wood flour, ground limestone and pigments. This mixture of materials was then applied to a linen or jute backing. Linoleum became a popular material used for floor covering because it was water-resistant, durable and easy to maintain. It came in a variety of colours and patterns and could imitate other more expensive floor coverings such as exotic carpets and marble. It declined in popularity during the 1950s due to the introduction of vinyl flooring that was cheaper. Linoleum is a natural product and causes less environmental damage to produce than vinyl, which is made of chlorinated petrochemicals. In recent times linoleum has made a comeback as a popular material for flooring. Its resurgence has been bought about by consumers' increased awareness of the environment and the negative impact of using non-renewable resources. These linoleum design samples are significant as they document the popularity of linoleum as a floor covering in Australian homes from the late nineteenth century to the 1950s. In addition, these design samples represent a link from earlier linoleum floor coverings to the new styles of today.
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Summary
Object Statement
Linoleum design illustrations (31), paper, various makers, England / Australia / Scotland, 1927-1930
Physical Description
A variety of linoleum design illustrations. The designs have been printed on paper. The samples have different patterns and colours. Many of the patterns have the maker or style printed on the back or in a border on the front of the sample. There are pencil written notes in the borders or on the back of some samples.
PRODUCTION
Notes
Various makers. Many have been made in England.
HISTORY
Notes
These linoleum design samples were found in the donor's grandmother's home. Her grandmother lived in a sandstone house built in 1879. She moved into this house between 1927 and 1930. When she moved in she re-decorated the house and had linoleum put in many rooms. It is likely that these samples came from this time period when the donor's grandmother was choosing the designs for her linoleum floors.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of Wendy Lowe, 2010
Acquisition Date
29 November 2010
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