Antique Belgian Bruges Bobbin Lace Collar 18th Century Rose Rare Version

An 18th-century antique from Belgium.
A large, authentic decorative collar made of delicate and elegant Bruges lace.

Small flowers of two or three blooms, stems, and leaves are depicted with soft curves.

There is no sharp outline; instead, the petals and leaf veins are openwork, and the area around the motifs is also openwork lace, giving it a gentle appearance. The stitches are not tight, with a half-stitch feel, creating a wonderfully airy coolness.

The centers of the flowers are decorated with small spider stitches and fancy filling stitches.

The bridges connecting the gaps between the motifs are delicate, made with thin threads and two picot laces.

Small picot lace is charmingly applied along the entire trim.

The owner explained that this is a rare type of Rosalind lace, different from clusters of small roses raised with thread. Perhaps the delicate flowers are representations of roses. Apologies for the speculation.

It resembles Duchess or Honiton lace, and while soft, it is more robust than Honiton and not so fragile as to seem like it might tear easily.

The elegant ivory color is breathtaking when seen and held. It may have a faint, subtle hint of gray. It may have been washed, but no bleaching or harsh washing has been done, so the threads are not thinned or shrunk, appearing close to their original state.

It is light but not limp, and while not stiff, it is firm.

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

Maximum width & height: 63cm x 41cm
Width at the back hem: 27cm
Border width: 17.5cm at the collar points (14-17cm)

There are no stains or discoloration damage. There are some areas with loose threads at the edge finishing and some unraveling threads here and there, but personally, I find them inconspicuous.

It is in very good condition for a handmade antique lace. Please view the images and forgive any minor imperfections.

A practical design and size perfect for adult women. It would be lovely to wear with simple knits, dresses, or coats, perhaps fastened with a brooch.

It can also be displayed, placed in antique glass containers or draped gently over bisque dolls.

It has a delicacy and texture different from machine-made lace. Framing it would also be magnificent. For someone who will cherish it...✧