This monumental book is unusually great for its graphic solutions to making life-size photographs of lace samples, sample books and test specimens along with many different products from hats, caps, bonnets, collars, veils, gloves and religious garments to blankets, spreads, hand towels and cushion covers and, lastly, frontages, rims, fringes, ribbons and panels, to make the collection visible and usable.
 
The different figures and fonds in the decorative lace can be carefully studied in regard to a variety of styles and periods because this book closes with a catalogue and a glossary: the catalogue provides readers with detailed information a.o. on the particular type of lace or yarn. A glossary helps us find the different parts and paraphernalia for techniques needed to construct a garment of larger sheets and concepts. The book ends with literature lists titles of all books that will be useful for further study.
 
A heartfelt recommendation for this book, where we can reach the past as pleasantly as is possible in our efforts to find contemporary solutions for the future use of lace. 
 
Angela van der Burght

Textile Museum St. Gallen, Switzerland>