Ontwerptekening op tekenpapier voor een kleed van kloskant met goudenregentakken en -bloemen c. 1912

Louise Wilhelmina van der Meulen-Nulle made this design drawing for a bobbin lace tablecloth on tracing paper, sometime in the early 20th century. Van der Meulen-Nulle was working at a time when women artists often found themselves confined to the domestic sphere, with artistic outlets like textile design seen as suitably feminine. The golden rain branches and flowers she depicts could be read as an embrace of nature's beauty, but also perhaps as a subtle nod to the golden rain tree’s hardiness; its ability to thrive even in challenging conditions. Much like the women of the time. This design, intended for a tablecloth, speaks to the intimacy of home life. Imagine the countless conversations, meals, and shared moments that would occur around it. The act of creating bobbin lace itself, a slow, meticulous craft, reflects a dedication to detail and a quiet rebellion against the rapid pace of industrialization. Ultimately, this drawing serves as a quiet but powerful testament to the artistry and resilience of women during a transformative period in history, subtly weaving personal expression into the fabric of everyday life.