Proefmotieven van kloskant voor een kleedrand met een dessin van paardekastanjes c. 1912

This is 'Proefmotieven van kloskant voor een kleedrand met een dessin van paardekastanjes', or Lace Bobbin Sampler with Horse Chestnut Design by Louise Wilhelmina van der Meulen-Nulle, made with lace and paper. The off-white of the lace, so carefully crafted, contrasts with the pale green of the paper on which the motifs are pinned. Note the pinholes that run horizontally through the card, like musical notation. The material of the lace is quite something: the texture is a network of tiny knots and woven strands, which creates a tactile and almost sculptural quality. Look at the largest motif: a horse chestnut leaf with its radiating veins and delicate edges. Imagine the time and skill it took to create this intricate pattern. The repetition of the small circular forms echoes the larger leaf, like variations on a theme. I think of Anni Albers and her interest in weaving as art form, and how she looked to the grid for inspiration. It’s like Van der Meulen-Nulle is thinking through making, exploring different rhythms, textures and designs to find the right combination. This piece is such a beautiful example of how art can be both functional and decorative, and how the process of making can be just as important as the final product.