Insertion

Unknown Artist

16th century

Insertion by Unknown Artist

Medium

Bobbin lace

Dimensions

L. 10 1/4 x W. 1 1/4 inches (26.0 x 3.2 cm)

Classification

Textiles-Laces

Culture

Italian, Venice

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Rogers Fund, 1920

Accession Number

20.186.86

Art Historical Context

Step into the opulent world of Renaissance Venice with *Insertion*, a delicate 16th-century bobbin lace strip from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Measuring just 10¼ by 1½ inches, this narrow band exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of Venetian lacemakers, who transformed fine linen threads into intricate patterns using bobbins—small spools that allowed for precise twisting and braiding. As a textile insertion, it was designed to be seamlessly worked into garments like collars, cuffs, or linens, adding a touch of luxury to everyday elite fashion. Bobbin lace, distinct from needle lace, em...

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