Antique Handmade Religious Filet Lace Border with Crosses – 300 × 20 cm

• Dimensions: 300cm long x 20cm wide
• Lace fiber: cotton or linen, unconfirmed
• Color: off-white
• Origin: from an antique collection sourced in Flanders, Belgium.

A long piece of antique handmade religious filet lace, featuring repeating cross motifs worked into a fine, open net.

The design has pointed panels with crosses at their centres, smaller geometric motifs between them, and a deep scalloped lower edge. The lace is particularly fine and delicate, with a fabric band along the top featuring small eyelets for attachment.

Probably dating from the early 20th century, this piece may originally have been used as an altar frontal or another church textile.

A lovely surviving piece of handmade ecclesiastical lace, suitable for its original religious purpose or for an antique textile collection.

Conditions:

Excellent antique condition. The lace itself is well preserved, with no significant damage visible. There are some small brown age spots on the upper fabric band, as shown in the photographs.

Care Instructions:

- If washing at home: Hand wash separately in cold or lukewarm water with a mild soap.

- Avoid: Bleach, strong detergents, wringing, or tumble drying — these damage linen fibers and lace.

- Drying: Lay flat on a towel or line dry in the shade (avoid direct sun, which weakens fibers).

- Ironing: Use medium heat while the fabric is still slightly damp, with a pressing cloth if needed to protect the lace.