Blanchland Placemats Appraisal

The Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland Table Placemats (Set)

The item is a set of table placemats, likely made of a hardboard or similar sturdy material with a cork backing for heat resistance and grip, as suggested by the visible edges of multiple stacked mats. Each placemat appears to be rectangular with slightly rounded corners, featuring a cream or off-white border surrounding a central image. The visible image on the top placemat depicts a detailed architectural scene, strongly resembling an old European village or town square, complete with stone buildings, possibly a castle or large manor house, and a street scene with figures. A prominent sign with text is visible, which upon closer inspection reads "THE LORD CREWE ARMS... BLANCHLAND". This specific text indicates the image is of The Lord Crewe Arms, a historic hotel and restaurant located in Blanchland, Northumberland, England. The style of the illustration suggests it could be a lithograph or print of an older drawing or painting, contributing to a classic, somewhat vintage aesthetic. The colors are muted but distinct, primarily earth tones for the buildings and greenery, with some brighter accents. The overall condition appears to be relatively good, though the top mat shows some light wear or slight discoloration on its cream border, consistent with normal use or age. There are no obvious signs of significant damage such as deep scratches, chips, or major fading from what is visible. The craftsmanship appears to be standard for commercially produced placemats of this type, focusing on durability and aesthetic appeal. Given the detailed architectural depiction and the specific location, these placemats are likely souvenir items or decorative household goods from the mid to late 20th century, particularly appealing to those who appreciate historical English landmarks or traditional decor.