Vintage 1930s Bronze Crochet Piano Shawl 40 x 65 Inch Floral Rose Fringe Art Deco Evening Wrap
Description
An extraordinary original 1930s rectangular piano shawl, intricately worked in lustrous bronze-brown thread and finished with a wonderfully dramatic deep fringe.
The large openwork shawl combines a finely worked central mesh with more open lattice sections and elaborate decorative borders. Flowing wave-like designs and unusual circular medallions frame the sides, while a striking band of large stylised roses runs across the lower portion.
The curved floral border creates a beautiful scalloped effect above the long fringe, while the rich thread catches the light and shifts between chocolate brown, bronze and antique copper.
The fibre is unlabelled but has the lustre, fluid drape and weight associated with period rayon, which was frequently marketed as “artificial silk” during this era.
Measuring approximately 45 x 57 inches (73" including fringe), this is a substantial and highly decorative textile. It could be worn carefully as a dramatic evening wrap or displayed as a piano covering, wall hanging, bed drape or theatrical piece.
A remarkable surviving example of 1930s textile design with enormous visual impact and wonderful evidence of its long history.
Details
Date: Circa 1930s
Colour: Bronze, copper and chocolate brown
Shape: Large rectangle
Design: Stylised roses, flowing borders and circular medallions
Construction: Intricate openwork crochet and macramé-style lace
Edging: Deep fringe
Material: Unlabelled; believed to be rayon or artificial silk
Label: None
Measurements
Approximately 45 inches x 57 inches. (73" including fringe)
Measurements are taken without stretching the delicate openwork.
Condition
Fair antique condition with considerable age-related wear and numerous historic repairs.
There are scattered holes, pulled threads and breaks within the openwork, together with areas of visible darning and previous repair. Some sections of the decorative borders have weakened or become partially separated, and the long fringe is uneven, tangled and worn in places.
The photographs show representative examples, but other small breaks, loose threads and fragile areas should be expected throughout due to the shawl’s age and delicate construction.
It remains an extraordinarily beautiful decorative piece and could be worn very carefully for an occasional event or photoshoot. However, it is not suitable for frequent wear and should be handled gently. It is offered in as-found condition.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as these form an essential part of the description.
Styling and display ideas
Drape it over a simple bias-cut evening dress to allow the extraordinary openwork and fringe to take centre stage. Its generous rectangular shape would also make a magnificent wall hanging, piano covering, decorative throw or theatrical costume piece.
