Black Lace Shawl c. 1939

This Black Lace Shawl was made by Raymond Manupelli sometime between 1855 and 1995. It is composed of black threads, meticulously intertwined to create a delicate, openwork fabric. Lace-making is an intricate, time-consuming craft, demanding a high degree of skill and patience. The shawl's visual impact comes from the contrast between the solid floral motifs and the airy, net-like ground. Its material qualities – the fineness of the thread, the open structure, and the dark color – all contribute to its elegance and allure. Handmade lace was a luxury item, a status symbol worn by the wealthy. It represents not only artistry, but also the social and economic conditions of its time. The labor-intensive process highlights the contrast between the slow, deliberate work of the lace maker and the increasingly mechanized world. Understanding the time and skill invested in its creation allows us to appreciate its value beyond mere decoration.