1 volume (78 pages, with additional blank pages at end) : approximately 450 lace samples ; 51 x 32 cm
Holdings:
Rare Books and ManuscriptsFolio B 2018 9Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Fund
Copyright Status:
Copyright Not Evaluated
Classification:
Archives & Manuscripts
Notes:
With printed label (on the front paste-down) of Priestley & Swann, Stoney St., Nottingham. "In reordering this book please quote no. 5096." The firm of Priestly & Swann was active from ca. 1895 until well into the 20th century.Sample book of machine lace containing approximately 450 lace patterns, by an unidentified manufacturer. Samples appear to be intended for apparel, probably on the higher end of the market, with some example of fine tulle. It may have been used by dressmakers or department stores to demonstrate available styles. Samples are annotated with four-digit numbers, written in black and red ink. These may be inventory numbers, or they be references to the cards that facilitate the machine work.Most samples are of white lace work. The final 10 pages, however, bear samples in a vibrant array of colors, including metallic threads. These samples are almost certainly intended for use with dresses.
Subject Terms:
Lace and lace making -- Great Britain. | Lace industry -- Great Britain. | Dresses -- Great Britain. | Clothing and dress -- Great Britain. | Clothing trade -- Great Britain. | Textile fabrics -- Specimens. | Textile fabrics -- Sample books.