Twee brede stroken Duits kant uit circa 1660, uit de collectie van het Kunstgewerbemuseum in Dresden, Duitsland 1888

These two broad strips of German lace were made around 1660, and are now held in the Kunstgewerbemuseum in Dresden. The lace is made from linen thread, painstakingly worked to create intricate patterns. What is most remarkable about this lace is the sheer amount of labor involved in its production. Each stitch would have been made by hand, a slow and exacting process that demanded immense skill. Looking closely, you can see the incredibly fine details and complex motifs, like the delicate floral patterns. It speaks to the artistry and patience of the lacemakers. Lace like this was not just decorative; it was a status symbol. The wealthy would use it to adorn their clothing and homes, displaying their affluence. The production of lace was a significant industry, providing employment for many women, though often for very low wages. By appreciating the material and the making, we gain insight into the lives and labor of those who created it, and the social context in which it was used.