Handkerchief

Date:
1853
Culture:
Belgian (Brussels)
Medium:
Linen and cotton, needle lace (point de gaze), bobbin lace
Dimensions:
L. 16 1/2 x W. 16 1/2 inches 41.9 x 41.9 cm
Classification:
Textiles
Credit Line:
Rogers Fund, 1921
Accession Number:
21.97
  • Description

    When it was established in 1830, the nation of Belgium encompassed some of the greatest lacemaking regions of Flanders. Thus, it is no surprise that some very fine laces were made as presentation pieces for Belgian royalty. This handkerchief, featuring both needle and bobbin lace, was made on the occasion of the wedding of Leopold, duke of Brabant (later King Leopold II of Belgium), and Marie-Henriette, archduchess of Austria, in 1853. Its design includes the arms of Belgium, the arms of Austria, and the initials L and M, entwined and surmounted by a crown. The point de gaze needle-lace inserts demonstrate an extraordinary mastery of the technique.

  • Provenance

    Princess Louise, daughter of Leopold II ; I. E. Balogh , 1921; sold to MMA

120039010

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