Bertha

Art Historical Context

Step into the elegant world of late 19th-century fashion *Bertha*, a delicate linen piece from Belgium, created around 1895. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume, this artwork exemplifies the refined textile traditions of its time. As a product of Belgian craftsmanship—renowned for intricate lace and fine linens—*Bertha* likely served as a collar or bodice trimming, a style that added graceful volume and ornamentation to women's dresses during the Belle Époque. Linen, its primary medium, was prized for its breathability and crisp texture, making it ideal for summer garments or u...