BRUSSELS LAPPETS

These Brussels lappets are made in the mid 18th century. They are produced in non-continuous bobbin lace technique. The reseau ground, called Droschel ground, is worked around the motifs.

The design of these lappets was inspired by the pattern of the silk textiles of the same period. The lappets are decorated with important elements of the mid 18th century design: flowers, fruits, birds, insects.

The design contains a pot with tree flowers, also typical for the 18th century laces.
By the middle of the 18th century, the lappets became less scalloped and the ends were rounded. The design of these Brussels lappets contains a mirror-effect.

In the 18th century, Brussels lace was one of the favourite laces. Ladies' toilets were the best places to display laces. As lace was a statussymbol, lappets were an ideal item to express the luxury lifestyle.

Lappets were a very important part of the clothing. They could be worn in their full length or folded on the head. The way of wearing them depended on the occassion.
As fashion developed in the 19th century, lappets could be joined together and serve as a tie.