Strip

Art Historical Context

This exquisite *Strip* of bobbin lace, crafted by an unknown Spanish artist in 17th century, the pinnacle of Baroque-era textile artistry. Measuring 16 by 5¾ inches (40.6 x 14.6 cm), this narrow band was likely used as a decorative trimming for garments, furnishings, or ecclesiastical items, reflecting Spain's Golden Age prosperity under the Habsburgs. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1909, it now graces the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative collection. Bobbin lace, the medium here, is a labor-intensive technique where dozens of threads wound on bobbins are twi...