This hankie is one of my personal favorites.
With the exception of a very small three
inch diameter unadorned middle section of the finest off white linen lawn, the entire
surface of this hankie is hand embroidered with beautiful satin stitch flowers, delicate
seed stitching and the most incredible cob web fine, needle lace medallions.
The embroidered pattern features a center wreath, surrounded by graceful bows and
ribbons, profuse floral decoration, different types of very fine lace and a lovely
satin stitch scallop edge. The hand stitched work is so well done that the back
of the hanky is virtually as nice as the front.
The hankie features high quality hand
executed decorations similar to Portuguese examples, however it is likely from the
island of Formosa where highly skilled needle workers were competing for the same
profitable embroidery trade of the period, c. 1920’s - 40’s.
While this hanky had never been used or laundered, it showed some overall age/storage
related darkening, so I carefully soaked and gently pressed it. It is now clean
and fresh. I did not use bleach, so the hankie would likely lighten to pure snow
white if desired, with the use of bleach/brightener. Due to low light the color
in our images does not show with complete accuracy.
This hanky is in exceptionally nice condition. There are no holes, tears, snags,
stains or other problems. It is really lovely, with outstanding embroidery and lace.
This
fine vintage textile would make a lovely wedding or bridal handkerchief.
Exquisite Vintage Embroidered Whitework Handkerchief Hankie, Bows, Flowers, Seed
& Satin Stitch
