With the exception of a very small, apx. four 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 and delicate seed stitching.
The embroidery pattern
features a center garland, surrounded by intricate scalloped drawn work, profuse
floral decorations and a fine hemstitched scalloped edge, finished with the tiniest
satin stitches.
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 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
in each of the large corner flowers.
This fine vintage textile would make a very lovely
wedding or bridal handkerchief.
Vintage Hand Embroidered Whitework Hankie, Handkerchief, Flowers, Seed & Satin Stitch,
Drawn Work
