Silky Shiny

Place:: France
Date:: c 1870
Dimensions:: L 27 cm x W 51 cm
Materials & Techniques:: Silk, mother of pearl and metal; bobbin lace and needle lace
Credit:: Gift of A. Hans Swinton
ID:: T95.0177

Brussels Mixed, a combination of bobbin and needle lace, is secured to mother of pearl staves and shaped to create this elegant fan. The needle lace in the central rose design is gauzy point de gaze, while the border is Duchesse de Bruxelles bobbin lace. Note the delicate etching and metallic tracing on the mother of pearl.

Collection Connections

Fan

Asia: South Asia, India, Western India, Gujarat, Saurashtra
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Fan

Asia: East Asia, Japan
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Fan

Asia: South Asia, India, Western India, Gujarat, Kutch, Bhuj
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What is the language of fans and what do they communicate?

Do you consider lace feminine, and if so, why?

Responses

responded: Jan 30, 2012

Posted by Caroline Wawreczka

Recommend this Response

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I consider lace to be a very feminine fabric. This delicate fabric has a long history and its connotation has evolved through history. The craft of lace making begun in the 14th century but did not become widespread until the 16th century. This elaborate fabric was hand crafted and sometimes embellished. Lace represented wealth, status and style and was worn by both men and women. Today women mainly wear lace. It is a delicate, soft, and gentle fabric. These attributes are similar to those of women. Additionally lace is often associated with women’s gowns, lingerie, and weddings. Lace is often made with floral patterns and embroidered that presents a romantic and feminine sentiment. Today we see lace adopted in various fashions. Designers and brands such as Zak Posen, Valentino, Chanel, Marchesa, Elie Saab and many more are infamous for their use of lace and their portrayal of femininity and beauty.

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