What's spread before spread? (5,5)

I believe the answer is:

table linen

'what's spread before spread?' is the definition.
(material on which a spread of food is placed)

This is all the clue.

(Other definitions for table linen that I've seen before include "domestic textiles" , "Napkins, cloths, etc. for diners" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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