Between the Covers

Hardcover. Large folio. Measuring 13.5" x 18.75". Three quarter dark red morocco and red cloth over boards, gilt spine with six compartments, titled in gold on the front board and spine, with white silk moiré endpapers. A handsome late-19th Century French album with 75 mounted crochet lace specimens, from the hand of a woman named Hélène Ongena. The examples include dresses, bonnets and bibs designed for a newborn infant, and numerous other examples of intricate lace borders and other designs, including several in multiple colors, and others with ribbons, tassels, and other elaborate raised woven elements. The samples are neatly and loosely sewn into place on thick blue paper leaves. Some toning and modest staining, but all appear intact and mostly very good or better, in a very good album with scattered foxing to the paper leaves and light scuffing to the edges and corners. An accomplished and pleasing gathering of work.

Item #421606