Antique Burano Lace: Louis XIV Fan, 18th Century Wedding Dress
Explore the precious collection of antique Burano lace at Dalla Lidia: a majestic fan belonging to Louis XIV and a rare 18th-century wedding dress.
At the culmination of your visit to our shop and museum, an extraordinary collection of fans is unveiled, culminating in a piece of inestimable historical and artistic value: a majestic fan that once belonged to the Sun King, Louis XIV (1638-1715). This precious artifact is just a glimpse of the wonders that await in the Gallery, where splendid "pagliotti" (lace collars) and laces from various eras are displayed, spanning from the distant 1500s to the present day. These antique Burano lace pieces were crafted with exquisite yarns, ranging from the finest count of 4000 to the more "modern" count of 40, currently used in the creation of contemporary lace.
In the first room, almost like a soloist in a silent orchestra, a truly unique piece captures the eye: a light and rare wedding dress entirely needle-worked in the 18th century. The delicacy of the embroidery and the preciousness of the thread tell tales of timeless elegance.
Continuing your exploration, a display case safeguards an extraordinarily crafted bedspread, embroidered with mastery by Countess Maria Walewska for Napoleon Bonaparte's son. This artifact represents a further link between the art of antique Burano lace and significant European history.
Our collection offers a privileged glimpse into the evolution of this fascinating art, through centuries of mastery and creativity. Each piece tells a unique story, testifying to the skill of Burano lacemakers in transforming precious threads into timeless works of art.