To protect tables, little mats like this were put underneath a candlestick or an oil lamp (this could have been used for either) to prevent drips of wax or oil from staining the wood. We are interested in acquiring textile objects beyond our many quilts and needleworks. We have few examples of things used in the parlor and elsewhere besides the bedroom. This helps widen our collection to be able to talk about textile design and use throughout the home. This one uses the ever-popular basket of fruit motif seen in so many other decorative arts contexts including oil and theorem paintings, prints, chintzes used in upholstery, curtains, and quilts, and applique album quilt blocks.