Beschreibung:

LACE - AMERICAN] Group of two American lace pattern books , n.p., n.d. (but on internal evidence, not before 1848 and most likely 1870s-1890s). Two volumes, original roan-backed cloth. 23 1/2 x 17 3/4 inches (60 x 45 cm); each volume approximately 100 ff., the first volume almost entirely completed, with designs on both sides of the leaf; the second volume with several blank or partially completed sections, but with in excess of 50 ff. with lace designs. The bindings worn, some dampstaining to the bindings (generally sparing the interiors), paper toned within but quite clean internally, the text blocks shaken, and consequently some leaves and signatures becoming detached from the bindings, but overall in good condition, an outstanding archive of lace designs. This is probably the pattern record book for a major manufacturer of lace patterns for home use. A number of these patterns are for lacework incorporating the names of American universities, including Yale, Smith, Princeton and Cornell, and that (taken in conjunction with American prices noted here and there in pencil) argues compellingly for an American origin for this archive. The designs are stamped in ink. This was the customary method by which lace patterns were reproduced at this period. The company that prepared these albums manufactured and distributed its stamped designs (either directly to customers or to retailers) and the ultimate purchaser would combine hand lacework with purchased machine lace to accomplish the design. Many of these designs have stamped indications for the amount and type of machine lace that was required, together with the pattern number and size e.g. "7401, 5 x 18. 1 1/2 yards braid, 1/2 yard purling." Additionally, some patterns have pencilled notations with pattern number, prices, etc. C