Mechlin lace trim
Label Text
Lace, the product of intense, time-consuming hand work, signaled prestige, power, and wealth, and consequently acted as an important finishing touch on elite dress. Martha Washington owned several sets of lace that she used to adorn her gowns, caps, and other accessories. This piece of Mechlin lace was likely used as the edging on a fichu (triangular shawl), an engageante (sleeve ruffles), or a cap. Mechlin lace, dubbed “the queen of laces,” was known for its elaborate patterns throughout the eighteenth century.
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Date1775-1800
Geography
Made -
Belgium
Medium/TechniqueLinen, bobbin lace
DimensionsOverall: 3 in. × 15 1/4 in. (7.62 cm × 38.74 cm)
Credit LinePurchase, 1956
Object numberW-2159/G
DescriptionMechlin white linen bobbin lace featuring parallel patterns of serpentine shapes, circles, leaves, and cartouches. The circles and striped serpentine shapes, which sprout sprigs of leaves, are scattered across the middle ground. Two rows of cartouches form a border along the lower edge. Each row is filled with a different fancy mesh filling. A silky gimp (thick outline thread) defines the motifs. The hexagonal Mechlin mesh ground has four twisted sides and two plaited sides. Tiny picots (loops of thread) extend from the lower edge of the lace.
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