Antique French Belgian Lace & Fine Thin Linen Eyelet Embroidery Large Cross

An exquisite, large cross from the 1800s, meticulously crafted by hand in France.

This piece, which could be called Normandy lace, beautifully combines cotton-linen fabric woven with extremely fine threads and adorned with eyelet embroidery, with several types of Belgian light beige bobbin lace.

The interior features approximately 8 layers radiating from the central oval, and about 15 layers including the connecting bridge lace. It is symmetrical on the sides but slightly asymmetrical top to bottom. The composition features approximately 22 square and rhombus-shaped embroidery panels, exquisitely arranged. The exact total number of panels is countless.

The thin, plain fabric possesses a luxurious quality superior to silk. It is soft, smooth, sheer, and has a flowing drape, making it dreamily exquisite. Threads this fine are likely unobtainable today. Beautiful flowers are rendered in open cutwork within the panels and at the tips of the lace.

The linen surrounding the oval center features a ground pattern of drone work (ladder lace embroidery) in a lattice design. Bobbin-laced linen threads are sewn in a crisscross pattern within the rhombuses/diagonal diamonds, evoking refinement, elegance, and a sense of coolness.

The ultimate elegance is found in the floral motifs hand-stitched onto the tulle, creating loops. The floral patterns, formed by coiling the loops, appear from a distance to be in the Milanese technique and resemble the Cantù lace technique of Italy, which sought eternity and peace.

The color is a gentle, very light beige with a hint of pink, as if touched by time, or a slightly darker ivory. For reference, the quilt underneath is white. The lace is slightly darker than the base color, evoking a refined nostalgia.

Please excuse any errors in the amateur measurements of this handmade item.

Dimensions: Rectangular, 219 cm (long side) x 169 cm (short side).

There are a few small tears from age, which have been carefully repaired with appliqué and thread darning. Upon close inspection, I found tiny brown and black dots, about the size of a pinprick. Personally, I find them barely noticeable and not distracting, not diminishing the overall value or detracting from the beauty (bottom right of the final image). Please understand that this is an old handmade item and kindly overlook minor imperfections.

To preserve the color and texture, avoid bleaching. If soiled, gently wash with (natural) soap, dry immediately, and then carefully iron with low heat.

This is a rare and exceptional piece that could also serve as curtains or a museum exhibit.
*This is the lowest possible price.