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Lace-Making in the town of Bruges, Belgium 1907
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Lace-Making in the town of Bruges, Belgium 1907
Mid-aged women working in their homes in Fladers on pillow lace-making. Working lots of hours for not much pay from seven in the morning till ten at night. The pattern is drawn full size on parchment, which is fastened to the pillow made to rest on their knee, parchment pins may be stuck at any required point. The pattern is then pricked over with pins holes at every point where pins require to be inserted in the sebsequent work of twisting and plaiting. Date: 1907
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Media ID 14253568
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bobbins Bruges Crafts Craftswomen Homes Lace Lacemaker Lacemaking Laps Makers Pillow Textiles Tradition 1907 Lacemakers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a moment in time from the early 20th century, showcasing the dedication and skill of mid-aged women in the picturesque town of Bruges, Belgium, as they engage in the traditional craft of pillow lace-making. The scene takes place in their humble homes in Fladers, where long hours were spent, often from seven in the morning till ten at night, for meager pay. The women are seen meticulously working on their lace, their pillows resting on their knees, upon which the full-sized lace patterns are drawn on parchment. Parchment pins are carefully inserted at every point where the lace thread would later be twisted and plaited. The use of bobbins and laps adds to the intricacy and detail of their creations. The lace-making industry held a significant place in the textile industry of Bruges, with its rich history dating back to the 16th century. The craft, passed down through generations, was an essential part of the local culture and economy. However, the labor-intensive process and the rise of industrialization eventually led to a decline in the popularity and demand for this traditional craft. The photograph, taken in 1907, offers a glimpse into a bygone era, providing a poignant reminder of the resilience and creativity of these craftswomen, who dedicated their lives to the preservation and continuation of this beautiful and intricate craft.
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