With the exception of a small unadorned middle section of the finest off white linen
lawn, the entire surface of this hankie is hand embroidered with beautiful satin
stitch flowers, delicate seed stitching and beautiful medallions filled with amazing
cob web fine needle lace.
The embroidery pattern on the hanky features a center garland,
surrounded by intricate drawn work, profuse floral decorations and a fine hemstitched
scalloped edge finished with the tiniest satin stitches.
The hankie features high quality hand executed embroidered decorations similar to
Portuguese examples, however it is likely from Formosa where skilled needle workers
were competing for the same profitable embroidery trade of the period, c. 1920’s
- 40’s.
While this hanky had never been used or laundered, it showed some overall age/storage
related darkening, so I carefully soaked and gently pressed it. It is now clean
and fresh. I did not use bleach so the soft off white color would likely lighten
to pure snow white if desired, with the use of bleach/brightener. Due to low light
the color in our images does not show with complete accuracy.
This hanky is in exceptionally nice condition. There are no holes, tears, snags,
stains or other problems. It is really lovely, with fine lace, embroidery, drawn
work and hemstitching.
This fine vintage textile would make a very lovely wedding
or bridal handkerchief.
Fine Vintage Whitework Hankie Handkerchief Seed & Satin Stitch, Drawn Work, Finest
Needle Lace Medallions
