Use
Serving a similar purpose to that of a rug, an oilcloth—also known as a floor cloth—was used to cover bare wooden floors. Particularly popular in the 1800s, oilcloths were crafted from a large piece of canvas that was cut and hemmed to fit the dimensions of a room.
While they could be fabricated in various styles, it was common for oilcloths to mimic the appearance of marble, allowing homeowners to impress visitors with a sophisticated look. Creating a durable, easy to clean, and water-resistant material suitable for high-traffic areas, such as entryways and hallways, the surface of an oilcloth was treated with oil and pigments. As new flooring materials became available, oilcloths declined in popularity.
