Joined Towel Ends with Floral Motifs

19th century

Joined Towel Ends with Floral Motifs, 19th century. Russia, 19th century. Cutwork and drawnwork: linen; straight (continuous) bobbin lace (tape lace) edging; overall: 55.8 x 48.1 cm (21 15/16 x 18 15/16 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of J. H. Wade 1921.1135 The tradition of stylized floral motifs in Russian lace originates in Flanders: Russian lace makers were inspired by the floral designs of tulips and carnations popular in Flemish lace. The demand for Russian lace grew rapidly after it was first displayed at the 1873 World Fair in Vienna.