Linen cutout doily. Most of the rectangle is fabric, with three leaves in each corner and four small spirals beside them, as though the edge of the fabric were a vine (which is reflected in the unevenness of the edge). In the middle, there is another rectangle made of flowers and vines, with breaks made by three circles. On either side of the inner rectangle, there is a three-petaled flower design made of a gridlike pattern, with the excess fabric cut out around them. Five circles form a point on the outside of the design.

Doilies are used to protect surfaces and for decoration. They are made by crocheting rows on a grid pattern called filet crochet. The cutwork technique originated during the Italian Renaissance during the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries.

The content on this site is made available for research and education purposes only. The use of these materials may be restricted by law or the donor.

Any other use, such as exhibition, publication, or commercial use, is not allowed except by written permission in accordance with the NHM Image Rights and Reproduction Policy.

For questions on image rights and reproduction, please contact nhmcollections@hellenicmuseum.org