Antique French Filet Lace Tablecloth

A large antique French filet lace tablecloth dating to the late nineteenth or early twentieth century, approximately 250 x 250cm. Filet lace - a technique of needle-knotted net ground embellished with darned motifs - covers the cloth in broad interlocking panels worked with trailing vines, leaves, and clusters of grapes. The lace panels are edged with a substantial border of heavyweight linen, giving the cloth its structure and weight. Lace of this scale and complexity was made for grand tables and special occasions; it would have been an heirloom piece from the moment it was made. The lace is in excellent condition and of a consistent ivory tone. Approximately 250 x 250cm. Dry clean only.