Flounce
Unknown Artist
ca. 1860
Medium
Applied
Dimensions
L. 115 x W. 23 inches 292.1 x 58.4 cm
Classification
Textiles-Laces
Culture
Belgian, Brussels
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. R.T. Auchmuty, 1917
Accession Number
17.15.5
Art Historical Context
Step into the opulent world of 19th-century fashion with *Flounce*, a stunning example of Brussels lace crafted around 1860. Hailing from Belgium's lace-making capital, this applied textile measures an impressive 115 by 23 inches (292.1 x 58.4 cm), designed as a wide ruffled border to adorn the hems of gowns or elaborate dresses. Produced by an unknown artisan, it exemplifies the meticulous needlepoint techniques synonymous with Brussels workshops, where lace was both a luxury commodity and a symbol of refined craftsmanship. Brussels lace reached new heights of popularity in the mid-19th cent...