KNOTTING, DOYLEY

A most attractive lacis lace doyley, where a hand knotted grid is created and then a floral pattern woven over the grid.

This doyley is unusual in that very fine thread has been used and an intricate, elaborate pattern formed.

The scalloped edge with scrolling design is remarkable.

Making knotted nets is an old craft used for centuries in the fishing industry, agriculture and for household purposes. It was used for ecclesiastical garments and on church altar frontals and hangings depicting stories from the Bible, the lives of saints and Christian themes as a way of teaching Christian beliefs and morals to the illiterate poor. Used extensively also on household goods - coverlets, curtains, tablecloths - and fashion wear - hair nets, girdles and purses.