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 embroidery pattern features center flowers, surrounded by large ferns, profuse
floral decoration, different types of very fine lace and a lovely scallop edge, finished
with the finest drawn work.
The hankie features high quality hand executed embroidered decorations similar to
Portuguese examples, however it is likely from the island of Formosa where 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 hankie 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 wonderful wedding or bridal handkerchief.
Fancy Vintage Hand Embroidered Whitework Hankie, Handkerchief, Ferns, Flowers, Seed
& Satin Stitch, Lace
