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Lace or thread curtains were a very common import in Sweden from the late 19th century until the Second World War. The country of origin of lace curtains has almost always been Scotland, and the only Swedish lace curtain factory that existed was also run by Scots. The character of this early 20th century curtain is, unusually, more of the type of delicate, sparse embroidery than grand lace, and the pattern is very reminiscent of 18th century lace and the diagonal floral pattern of the Rococo, an era that early 20th century interior designers often drew inspiration from. The simple, romantic impression is emphasized by, in addition to the sparsely scattered flower sprigs, also the thinly “embroidered” edge. The character is thus 18th century romantic, without being pretentious and the curtain fits perfectly both in period interiors and in less period rooms. The curtain is woven exclusively for Gysinge on mid-19th century looms at Scotland’s oldest curtain weaving mill.

Lace or thread curtains were a very common import in Sweden from the late 19th century until the Second World War. Many patterns, like this one, were woven in Scotland, where there is still a strong and living tradition of patterned curtains made from real cotton. This curtain is still woven on old looms in one of the few remaining weaving mills. The curtain is made of the finest ivory white cotton and magnificently patterned with roses in vases, garlands, ribbons and borders. A typical sumptuous 19th century pattern, suitable for the finest rooms in the house.

Machine-woven lace curtains were once considered the ultimate luxury (as opposed to simple home-woven ones!) and those who could really afford it would also buy curtains that were far too long and let them hang out on the floor, much like a bridal veil. The most famous home, where this type of hanging still lives on in unbroken tradition, is Karen Blixen’s Rungstedlund, just north of Copenhagen.