Flying Ducks is one of the most recognisable prints in the Icons collection, a flock of ducks caught mid-flight and drawn with a light, engraver's touch across a pure linen ground. It has the wit and economy of a good sporting illustration rather than anything twee, and it works as well in a grand hall as it does in a small downstairs loo. Linen gives the print a dry, slightly uneven surface that suits the subject well.
It is 100 per cent linen, 137 centimetres wide, with a 62 centimetre vertical repeat and a horizontal repeat of 137 centimetres, the full cloth width. It is recommended for curtains and both loose and fixed upholstery. There are eight colourways in total; among them, Blue is crisp and graphic, Plaster is soft and pink-toned, Stone/Brown is the most neutral, Emerald is the richest green, and Red/Blue brings the most contrast. With this many options, we always suggest ordering two or three samples before deciding.
We would use it as a pair of curtains in a hall, a cloakroom or a study, where the ducks can be appreciated at a glance, or as a loose cover on a single chair. It is also a natural choice for a Roman blind above a run of framed prints of the birds themselves. Sold by the half metre; order a sample to see it in your own light.
A making-up note: with a 62 centimetre repeat, allow one extra repeat per drop and ask your maker to keep the ducks flying the same direction across a pair of curtains, which matters more with a directional print like this than with a floral. Pure linen should be given a season to settle before the final hem is set. Dry clean only; do not wash or iron.
