Cuffs c. 18th century

These cuffs were made by an anonymous maker, with needle lace. Think about the labor and skill involved in creating such intricate work. Needle lace, unlike bobbin lace, is made with a single needle and thread. These cuffs speak to a history of anonymous labor, usually by women, often undervalued. Who were these artisans? What were their lives like? What were their personal stories, their social and economic conditions? This textile offers us a glimpse into the lives of those whose names have been lost to history. These cuffs were likely worn by someone of high social standing, symbolizing wealth and status, and were worn against the skin, a silent witness to a personal history. They prompt us to reflect on the intersection of luxury and labor, artistry and anonymity.