Antique Black Chantilly Lace Shawl Mantle Cape Mantilla Veil Gothic Chic Bridal

  
RECENTLY ACQUIRED FROM A PRIVATE ENGLISH ESTATE THIS DEVINE HEIRLOOM QUALITY HUGE ANTIQUE FRENCH CHANTILLY LACE SHAWL WITH MANTLE. A RARE versatile and stunning antique Victorian SHAWL OR CAPE ready to wear. Large in size, the shawl would have originally been worn with the expansive skirt of a Victorian Crinoline, possibly as a mourning shawl or cape, it is double layered with a smaller mantle layer- it appears to be all made in one piece and cleverly designed as this mantle could also be worn over the head and pinned in place with combs or similar to make aish mantilla style veil with the larger shawl falling from the shoulders. It can be worn as a cape with both layers falling softly over the shoulders too with the longer layer continuing the pattern throughout in symmetry to enhance the view from the back. Exquisite in design, a cobweb of intricate jet black threads fashioned to create a highly dramatic and ethereal garment of the most delicate lace.

The fineness of the lace (it's strong and springy and a natural fibre) suggests either a handmade piece or a finely and expertly machine made piece which was also popular in 19th century- EXPERT inspection at my photographs may determine its origin and it is truly stunning, a deep and elaborate border with decorative scalloped edge flank stylised formal arrangements of garlands of flowers interspaced with bouquets and tiny sprigs and edged in Greek key pattern which was very popular in Victorian days. A really stunning shawl that would look beautiful as a gothic wedding veil or mantilla or evening shawl or could be appreciated as an ornamental drape or hanging.

Condition is excellent and appears pristine as stored lovingly for decades, clean, and I have looked thoroughly, due to its very careful storage I cannot find any holes or repairs. (this is unusual for such a beautiful item but it has been stored as a family heirloom and lovingly cared for throughout its life). Please remember though that this is very very old approx 100 years or more, and as such small imperfections are to be expected and this item is not new but I list as accurately as possible so if I have missed something it's vv small and not noticeable by me. THIS SHAWL IS TRUE BLACK- hard to capture in photos.

ALL MEASUREMENTS ARE FOR A GUIDE ONLY AND APPROXIMATE. Measurements; bottom layer approx 148 cms at longest point. Top layer approx 67 cms at longest point. Total is difficult to measure due to shape but photo of cape on wall shows approx 2 mtrs. Maybe you might take the time to look at the other interesting textiles I have listed- all com private English estates.

The item "ANTIQUE BLACK CHANTILLY LACE SHAWL MANTLE CAPE MANTILLA VEIL GOTHIC CHIC BRIDAL" is in sale since Sunday, April 23, 2017. This item is in the category "Antiques\Fabric/Textiles\Lace/ Crochet/ Doilies". The seller is "thosedorisdays" and is located in poole, Dorset. This item can be shipped worldwide.

• Type/ Features: Lace
• Sub-Type: LONG CAPE OR SHAWL WITH MANTLE- RARE
• Product: Scarves/ Shawls
• Colour: Black
• Style/ Origin: French