This particular handkerchief is hand embroidered with absolutely tons of seed stitching
and drawn work. It does not show well in our pictures, but the entire perimeter
of this hanky has a wide border (between the flowers and the drawn work hemstitching)
that is comprised entirely of tiny, tiny hand embroidered seed stitches. I have
never seen so much of this fine intricate stitching on one handkerchief! With the
exception of a very small, apx. 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 and delicate seed stitching, as well as intricate
drawn work hemstitching.
The embroidery pattern features a very ornate 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 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. I did notice a very tiny, light
gray dot in the middle of each corner flower, which is to light to show in our images.
This is part of the original printed pattern design used by the needle worker to
assist in completing the complex embroidered deign. I believe a satin stitch was
to be placed over each tiny mark, however they were either overlooked or purposely
left out by the embroiderer. Anyone who is familiar with embroidered hankies has
seen this before. You must really scrutinize to detect, but since this outline pattern
was designed to disappear after laundering this will likely resolve with a second
wash.
There are no holes, tears, snags, stains or other problems. This little work
of art is really lovely, with masses of seed stitches and overall outstanding embroidery.
This fine vintage textile would make a lovely wedding or bridal handkerchief.
