Handkerchief

1853

Not on view

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Handkerchief
Date: 1853
Culture: Belgian, Brussels
Medium: Linen and cotton, needle lace (point de gaze), bobbin lace
Dimensions: Overall (confirmed): 17 1/8 × 17 1/8 in. (43.5 × 43.5 cm)
Classification: Textiles-Laces
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1921
Object Number: 21.97
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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Handkerchief with needle lace border, Linen, needle lace, Belgian — Handkerchief with needle lace border
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late 19th century

Handkerchief, Needle lace, Brussels needle lace, Point de Gaze, linen, Belgian, Brussels — Handkerchief
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