This kerchief was acquired from the Chaffyn Grove family, via Kerry Taylor Auctions in association with Sotheby's. In 1686, John Grove married Mary Chaffyn, inheriting Zeals House from her, and their descendants took the name Chaffyn Grove. In the 19th c. a female successor married into the Troyte Bullock family. According to family tradition the handkerchief was thought to have belonged to Charles I, but there is no crown with the embroidered 'C' or 'R' & 'I'. Such an attribution without more concrete documentation is dubious and the kerchief has been acquired solely for its intrinsic value as fine and rare example of 17th century dress. Historical significance: This is a rare example of an undecorated 17th century kerchief.