#4128 $1,200
Dresden embroidered mull pelerine, 1830s-50s
Dresden Embroidery, also known as Point de Saxe, was a form of whitework popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries. The open work designs, when executed on sheer cotton muslin (mull), were delicate enough to resemble lace. (Dresden refers to small floral sprays like the patterns on Dresden china.)
The exceptional pelerine is a special treasure for the serious collector, who knows how difficult it is to find early whitework in top condition. The heirloom quality pelerine would make a lovely wedding accessory or a beautiful display in your home.
I have always been partial to the pristine purity of whitework. Without the enhancement of color, a whitework design depends solely on creative combinations of texture.
Pelerine shawls, where the front was longer than the back, became popular as skirts became fuller in the 1830s. The shape continued to be worn throughout the 1860s.
The condition is almost excellent. I found a few early mends done in very fine thread that matches the sheer ground.
It measures: 26" center-back length and 39" center-front length.
