KNOTTING, MAT
A hand knotted lace doyley made by the donor’s grandmother in early 20th century. A variety of patterns including dainty floral motifs which created a dainty scalloped edge.
Worked with a sewing needle over a foundation thread, knotted lace is a needlelace where a knot is used to make loops of different sizes, shapes and lengths creating intricate patterns.
Knotted lace, dating back to the Phoenicians, originated in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is found in many areas of Greece, in Cyprus, Turkey, Palestine, Armenia and Lebanon.
In contrast to Europe where lace was the preserve of the nobility, in Armenia it decorated everything and lacemaking was part of most women's lives. Used mainly for ecclesiastical purposes, it also decorated the head coverings, trimmings for clothing, doilies, edgings and household items – curtains, tea cloths and bed linen.
