M is for Monthly Bureau

I found this letter M, which is made from embossed paper, hidden in the depths of an old Victorian sewing box. I think it would have been used as a template for embroidering onto fabric. It was quite common in those days for initials to be sewn onto household linen such as tray cloths, handkerchiefs and tea towels. I have been collecting hand embroidered handkerchief holders, here are a couple from my collection:
                               

                                                   MB, from Leftovers, Brixton Village.

                                                   LD, from Le Grenier, Bethnal Green.