This beautiful and
feminine fichu wrap is from a special collection of historic lingerie textiles,
clothing and accessories from a prominent Westchester NY family involved in politics
for generations. This particular piece—which is both lovely to wear and a rare
part of textile history, is hand crafted in early and rather rare highly
detailed French Valenciennes bridal laces (see photos). The fichu, which was a
popular bridal item of the time, was found with several lovely trousseau items
wrapped carefully in a box from a shop in Paris dated 1887. The piece, which is
made of the finest hand-milled and hand-stitched Valenciennes lacing, is
distinctive for its intricately worked rather exotic early period botanical
motifs; its delicately ruffled detailing; its flattering scalloped edging; and
its original dainty shadowed—from pale raspberry to cream—silk bow closure,
adorned with hand embroidered florals, often a tradition of trousseau pieces
(see photos). The fichu may be worn two ways: it can sit demurely at the edges
of the shoulders, closing at the bosom; or it can fall gracefully, ruffling
down the front (see photos). The piece is in very good vintage condition; it
was carefully stored and appears it was seldom worn. It measures about 56½”
long when laid out, and about 5” wide on each side (see photos).