With the exception of a very small, apx. three inch diameter unadorned middle section
of the finest off white - pale cream linen lawn, the entire surface of this hankie
is hand embroidered with beautiful satin stitch flowers and delicate seed stitching.
The
embroidered pattern features center ferny garlands, surrounded by profuse floral
decorations, intricate drawn work 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 embroidery 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 hand embroidery
work.
This fine vintage textile would make a lovely wedding or bridal handkerchief.
Fine Vintage Embroidered Whitework Hankie, Handkerchief, Garlands, Flowers, Seed
& Satin Stitch
