Description and Details
This pair of antique Irish linen pillow slips offers classic whitework elegance with refined lace detail. Each slip is made in an Oxford style, with a wide hem around the sides and bottom that frames the central panel and gives a tailored, formal look on the bed. Within this structure sit hand made bobbin lace inserts, worked in fine thread to create delicate open motifs that read as lace windows against the smooth linen.
The central areas are decorated with hand embroidery of whitework flowers, stitched carefully so the motifs sit in harmony with the lace. Along the edges of the hems you will find drawn thread work, where threads have been withdrawn and reworked to form narrow, airy borders. Together, the bobbin lace, whitework embroidery, and drawn thread detailing create a richly textured yet all white surface that feels both calm and luxurious.
The pillow slips are entirely hand stitched in construction. The back openings are finished with hand worked buttonholes and fitted with mother of pearl buttons, a hallmark of quality antique bed linen. Both cases are described as being in excellent, near mint condition, making them suitable for careful use, display in a period interior, or as reference pieces for textile collectors and embroiderers. They measure 96.5 x 53.5 cm (38 x 21 inches), a generous size that works well on a double or larger bed, stacked with other heritage linens.
Materials Details: Irish linen pillow slips with drawn thread work, hand made bobbin lace inserts, whitework embroidery, hand sewn construction, hand worked buttonholes and mother of pearl buttons.
