handkerchief, Approx 1900

Historical information

Handkerchiefs have been used by men and women for centuries. They could be made of any bit of cloth, but eventually they became a symbol of social status and wealth. As they became a status symbol, they also became more than just scraps of cloth, and were decorated with lace and embroidery.

Significance

This item is an example of a handcrafted item and reflects the needlework skills of women in the families of the early settlers.

Physical description

Hand-embroidered silk dress handkerchief. Flowers embroidered on front. Fabric colour is beige.

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