Edging

early 17th century
Not on view
Punto in aria—literally, "stitches in the air"—is one of the earliest styles of needle lace, which is itself developed from cutwork of primarily geometric design. When lacemakers transitioned to using a foundation of threads laid out according to a pattern drawn on parchment, they were able to incorporate more fluid lines and curves into their designs.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Edging
  • Date: early 17th century
  • Culture: Italian
  • Medium: Needle lace, punto in aria
  • Dimensions: L. 21 x W. 9 inches (53.3 x 22.9 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Laces
  • Credit Line: Anonymous Gift, 1879
  • Object Number: 79.1.243
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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