Exquisite vintage 12" round crochet lace doily done in natural / ecru in what we believe is called FILET LACE with a center floral medallion that the filet lace cascades away from. Handmade.
The old needle-made laces are labor intensive, and are rarely made today. Lacis should not be confused with the filet lace interpretations copied by bobbins, crochet, and embroidery on fabric. Filet is an ancient lace technique, sometimes referred to as nun's work because it was known to be made in convents.
Lace history and lace identification books show wonderful examples of Lacis
from as early as the 14th C. One of the earliest references to this work is
a cushion of network that St. Paul's Cathedral possessed in 1295, and three
pieces of the same work were in use in Exeter Cathedral in 1327.
"Filet" is the French word for a net, and "Lacis" for network - meaning in this case that the net has been ornamented with a design darned or applied upon its surface. The ground consisted of a delicate network made by hand, using the same technique as was used for making coarser fish and garden nets. On this ground the pattern was worked, usually by darning; the "point de toile" and the "point de reprise" being the stitches most generally employed.
Extremely good vintage condition, with no stains or spots, no damage that we can find. Hand-washed, but not blocked, and ready to use, display or give as as a beautiful hostess gift.
A1722 - Vintage 12" Round CROCHET LACE DOILY FILET LACE Table Linen
$5.00 First Class Mail
