Border 1862 - 1872

This length of lace was made by Verdé, Delisle & Cie., and is a testament to the artistry and labor of lacemakers. Think about this border not just as an object of beauty, but as a product deeply entwined with the social hierarchies of its time. Lace making was a highly skilled craft often practiced by women, and the lace trade was a significant part of the European economy. High-quality pieces like this would have been destined for the adornment of wealthy elites, subtly reinforcing class distinctions. Consider the emotional weight of each stitch, each pattern. The delicate floral motifs speak to a desire for beauty and refinement, but also perhaps to a longing for nature within the confines of courtly life. Each element serves as a quiet statement of identity.