Early 20th Century Irish Crochet Lace Rose Motifs Plastron Bodice Insert Set in Contemporary Shadowbox Frame

Up for sale is an Early 20th Century Irish Crochet Lace Rose Motifs Plastron Bodice Insert Set in Contemporary Shadowbox Frame! It measures 21 3/4” tall, 13 1/4” wide, and 1 5/8” deep on the outside of the frame. The plastron itself measures 17” long. The piece is in excellent overall condition with minor signs of wear consistent with its age and use. Please message us if you have any questions. Thanks!

An exceptional artifact of European textile history, this antique Edwardian Irish crochet lace plastron bodice insert dates from the height of the lace revival period, circa 1900–1910, and serves as a formal chemisette masterfully handcrafted to fill the open neckline of a tailored walking jacket or an elaborate evening gown. The museum-quality piece exhibits an array of highly stylized, multi-tiered Irish rose motifs worked over a thick padding cord to create an elegant, tactile three-dimensional effect, complemented by detailed leaf sprigs meticulously textured with fine ribbing achieved through precise back-loop crochet work. The central focal point of the lower chest panel features an expansive, geometric sunflower wheel motif that suspends a distinct, tightly padded crochet drop pendant, all seamlessly integrated across a gossamer-fine hexagonal mesh network densely punctuated by tiny picots and delicate Clones knots. The entire perimeter of the plastron—including the tapered shoulder straps meant to fasten behind the neck—is framed in a continuous, flawlessly executed border of tightly bound buttonhole rings, showcasing the superlative skill of a master European lacemaker and offering an ideal acquisition for advanced collectors of antique couture or historic lace art.

♦️$30.00 flat rate shipping to all of the United States (Combined, international, and freight shipping as well as local pickup available upon request!)