The tiny trailing flowers and sprigs and the straight edge suggest this ethereal lace dates from the late eighteenth century, possibly 1790-1800. A few light golden yellow stains, and some breaks in the point ground mesh, but still would be a wonderful piece for a couture period doll, or other elegant use. Note: clicking on the bottom right corner of the enlarged image will make it enlarge still further. |
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| Point ground background mesh, consisting of pairs of twisted threads, was typically used in Lille bobbin lace. There is very little clothwork; design is almost entirely defined by the heavier outline or "gimp" thread. This is characteristic of late eighteenth century laces. |
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| There is a seam joining two sections of lace, about 15 inches from one end. It is not uncommon for seams to appear, as the work of more than one lacemaker would be joined to make the yardage needed for opulent use. The zig-zag overlapping of the mesh is typical of eighteenth and nineteenth century seams, and could very well have been done when the lace was made. It is also very possible that the seam was put in as a repair, to eliminate a damaged section of the mesh. |
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