Antique Handmade Filet Altar Lace with IHS Christogram & Sacred Heart – 245 × 20 cm

• Measurements: 245 × 20 cm (approx. 96.5 × 7.9 inches).
• Lace fiber: cotton or linen, unconfirmed
• Color: off-white
• Origin: from an antique collection sourced in Flanders, Belgium.

Antique handmade embroidered filet lace border, likely originally intended for an altar cloth or other church textile.

The design features repeating IHS Christograms and crosses, with a Sacred Heart motif in the centre. Raised embroidery, small floral motifs and a scalloped lower edge.

A plain fabric strip is sewn along the upper edge, possibly to facilitate attachment to a larger textile.

Conditions:

Good antique condition. No tears in the lace. Some age marks and staining on the upper fabric strip.

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.