Bobbin Lace for Partlet

I have for some time, been eyeing off the Portrait of Maria di Medici by Alessandro Allori (1555-1557). I was lucky enough to obtain a detailed copy of this portrait (thanks Oonagh) giving much clearer details of the partlet. I have been wanting to make a really OTT partlet for some time.
Below is a closer detail of the very simple lace itself

For the ongoing diary of the partlet CLICK HERE

This triangular shape is very reminiscent of bobbin laces found in Le Pompe, but of a much simpler pattern. (Le Pompe is one of the few contempory pattern books (1559) that is soley for bobbin lace.) A good place to start (I am already eyeing off some of the more intricate ones... where to find the time?!)

I first practiced on some existing white cotton DMC thread I had in my stash. Having made a few metres, I thought this would make a good gift or exchange for other skills.... (see below L).
I then began on the first of the lace, for the partlet (R). My dear hubby managed to find me some gold coloured thread. I think next time, I will try a thinner one, though this seems a little chunky, it appears that it will stand up well and should hold some pearl 'spangles' well. (below R)

The middle picture is of the white lace in progress. 4 pairs of bobbins were used.


Bobbin lace is a plaited lace. Cotton was chosen due to the more easy availability and cost.

According to Le Pompe: Patterns for Venetian Bobbin Lace, bobbin lace was most commonly made from silk, metal threads. Linen was more commonly used for undergarments, as well as household linens.
It appears that bobbin lace originated in Italy and was introduced to Zurich in 1536. There is a reference to it being in Italy some 25 years before that. (Le Pompe quoting Nuw Modelbuch ).

Another idea for a project of mine, which has a very simple bobbin lace edge, this time in black from a portait by Battista Maroni (Portrait of Noblewoman). This edging is very similar to a pattern from Le Pompe - p20: reprinted from Nuw Modelbuch (1560) This will require only 2 pairs of bobbins.

September, 2004:

You can find several interesting books (pdf) online at the Digital Archive of Books: including:

These have some nice contemporary pics of lace, including on some camcias. It is amazing what you can find on internet searches!!!

 

For the ongoing diary of the partlet CLICK HERE

 

Bibliography