A revealed lifestyle of a European noble lady
Diane Claeys presented three lectures at The Lace Centre in Harajuku, Tokyo. Over the course of the lectures, laces related to the life history of a noble lady illustrated the way lace was a part of every phase of life.
The first lecture focused on the laces which were used during the childhood of the noble baby. The second lecture explained the history of the marriage. In the third lecture mourning laces could be admired.
The voyage through the lace trousseau and secrets of a European high class personality proved very intriguing. Each of the participants could listen and gently touch delicate laces from Diane's collection during the three lectures.
The participants had to imagine themselves as the young noble lady from her birth till her old days. In this way, each experienced his or her own story and was able to make their own, personal notebook.
It was an entertaining, emotional and wonderful journey of life we went through all together. With the antique laces we experienced the ups and downs in life.
During the wedding lecture, some 19th century tiaras were shown. Among these were delicate wax tiaras. The orange blossoms date from the Victorian era.
The original box to save the delicate tiaras for future generations no longer existed. One of the participants was so passionate about the tiaras that she made the most wonderful box by hand. Although cartonage is the lady’s hobby, the box looks professionally made. Three tiaras can be stored inside. The cover shows a pearl tiara.
The box is a present for the 30th anniversary of Claeys Shop. What a surprise to receive a present born out of a deep friendship, created by lace. This gift caused an intense feeling of happiness to realize that lace is indeed a passion without borders. It’s a cultural exchange. The grace and charm of lace enriches the mind and soul of everyone all over the world.
(You may click on the pictures to obtain a bigger sized photo.)