#2568 $1,800
Irish crochet lace coat or dress, c.1920s
Three dimensional raised work is the distinguishing element of Irish crochet lace, which has enduring romantic appeal. We never seem to tire of the bold floral compositions that can be easily viewed from a distance.
Our coat has all the attributes favored by serious collectors: unusual large medallions in the lace pattern; a variety of floral motifs; and a pleasing arrangement of the motifs. This stylish garment can be worn as a coat. It would be equally successful as a dress; just close the front and add a slip.
The figure flattering cut features a form fitting empire style bodice, elbow length sleeves, and a gracefully flared skirt. The bodice shows that the Irish crochet style can be both ladylike and sexy. The sleeves can be tightened with loops and buttons.
The designer creatively mixed both flat and three dimensional motifs made from handmade lace of ivory cotton thread. The raised work medallion on the center-back is a fine example of Irish crochet, giving the coat a special distinction.
Each piece in Irish crochet is uniquely assembled from a collection of separate motifs. Handmade Irish lace garments do not have unsightly seams. The shape of the garment is built in with hand assembly of the individual motifs. Because of the firm, taut structure of Irish crochet, it is ideal to outline the female form in a discreetly provocative manner.
The European craft of crochet achieved an aesthetic pinnacle in Ireland, where crochet artists used 17th century Venetian needlepoint laces as their inspiration. The quintessential Irish lace is Irish crochet, already famous in 1743 when the Royal Dublin Society awarded prizes for outstanding examples.
When we consider the modern history of women's high fashion, we tend to think only of Parisian couture, invented by Charles Worth in 1858. If costume art is a lovely flowering tree, its main trunk was indeed couture. There were, however, other fine branches on the tree: Aesthetic Dress was one; and Irish lace was the other.
The condition is excellent. It is clean and ready to wear.
It measures: 38" bust, 32" waist, 42" hip, and 41" from the shoulder to the hem.
