Antique Edwardian Embroidered Net & Chemical Lace Dress Collar / Yoke c.1900

A particularly attractive and substantial antique Edwardian lace dress collar or bodice yoke, dating to approximately c.1900–1910.

The piece measures approximately 66 x 38cm and is beautifully worked in a creamy ivory-coloured thread, combining areas of extremely fine machine net with elaborate heavier openwork lace and embroidered decoration. Some of the heavier lace elements appear consistent with the chemical/Schiffli embroidery techniques widely employed for high-quality dress trimmings around the turn of the 20th century.

The collar has a dramatic elongated shape, terminating in a deep point at the front and with long sections extending upwards towards the shoulders and neckline.

Decoration is particularly elaborate, incorporating:

• Large stylised floral motifs

• Leaves and scrolling foliage

• Fine floral sprigs embroidered directly onto the net

• Heavier openwork floral lace panels

• Geometric and lattice-work details

• Scalloped and shaped outer borders

• A particularly elaborate central pointed panel

This type of decorative lacework was fashionable during the Edwardian period, when elaborate detachable collars, yokes and lace trimmings were used to embellish women’s dresses and blouses. The combination of almost transparent net with heavier lace would have been especially effective when worn over silk or another contrasting fabric.

DATE: c.1900–1910

PERIOD: Edwardian

TYPE: Dress collar / bodice yoke / dress trimming

MATERIAL: Fine net with embroidered and openwork lace, including probable chemical/Schiffli lace elements

COLOUR: Creamy ivory

SIZE: Approximately 66 x 38cm at widest points

CONDITION:

Antique condition with faults consistent with age and the exceptionally delicate nature of the material. There are areas of damage to the fine net, including holes/breaks, together with some loose or broken threads and areas of staining/discolouration and general age toning. Please examine the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

Despite these faults, the overall form remains readily apparent and the majority of the elaborate decorative lacework survives. A beautiful original piece of Edwardian costume and textile history, suitable for a lace or costume collection, study, display or potentially sympathetic conservation.

Please see photographs for full details and condition.

Happy to combine postage where possible.

USA BUYERS NOTE: Please wait for an invoice before making payment as Duty will be added at this end as the seller has to pay in Australian lodgement at the post office.