Fragment
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Bobbin lace, Milanese lace
Dimensions
L. 54 x W. 9 inches (137.2 x 22.9 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Laces
Culture
Italian
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Henrietta Seligman Lace Collection, Bequest of Mrs. Jesse Seligman, 1910
Accession Number
10.102.112
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Fragment* of 18th-century Italian bobbin exemplifies the artistry of Milanese lace, a renowned technique originating Milan. Measuring an impressive54 inches long by 9 wide, this narrow strip intricate motifs of flowers and leaves, meticulously crafted to evoke the elegance of nature. As a textile fragment, it likely served as a decorative border or flounce for garments, furnishings, or ecclesiastical items, showcasing the period's fascination with opulent lacework. Milanese lace, produced using fine linen threads twisted and plaited on bobbins over a patterned pillow, is celebr...