Alençon lace

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  12. Alençon lace
Scope note
A type of needle lace made in and around Alençon, France, as well as similar lace made elsewhere. Venetian lace makers were brought to France by Colbert in 1665 and settled in Alençon in 1765, establishing a lace industry under government protection. The industry declined over the course of the 18th century but was revived under Napoleon and again during the Second Empire. Alençon lace is characterized by a uniform square mesh with twisted sides, heavy use of modes, and bold main elements outlined with a conspicuous cordonnet.
Alençon lace
Accepted term: 29-Apr-2024