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. This narrow example of Mechlin lace was likely worn by Martha Washington either as edging on a neckline, a sleeve ruffle, or a cap. Mechlin lace, dubbed “the queen of laces,” was initially known for its elaborate patterns, but later adapted to changing taste at the beginning of the nineteenth century, when women preferred more open, airy designs in their lace.