Having been at the Lace Guild Convention when Dr Yallop gave a talk on the history and subsequently bought and read the book, I agree that his theory, which relates to the history of the Honiton lace industry, makes more sense than the much copied theories in Mrs Palliser's book that lacemaking was first introduced by migrants. This migrant theory also exists where the British nail making industry is concerned, (the Romans taught us that!) and no doubt also to many other industries.
1590 is very late when you consider that lace was worn in this country in 1537, if not earlier. It is reported that Anne of Cleeves had lace in her wedding trousseau, and we have the stories of Catherine of Aragon teaching her ladies to make lace... albeit hearsay, the chances are that the Spanish industry goes back further as I believe I have read somewhere that lace (maybe needlace rather than bobbin) was in existence around 1480, I think it was 1485 she married Henry? JR Planche, writing (from primary source research) in 1837 includes details of broad bands of gold lace on Henry VIII's clothing, I can't remember the years but this would have to be before 1547. I think the earliest of the Huguenots are said to have arrived in the 1570s. Of course, lace throughout history has been led by fashion, and that what was in fashion on the Continent would be brought here by merchants. Kings travelled abroad to lead their troups in battle, Henry VIII included, and would not want to be behind the times in what they wore, either. So a fashion for lace adorned clothing would easily spread from the continent to England where the nobility were concerned. We know that Milan was the centre of fashionable clothing then, just as Paris is known now. Much would have been imported, but I doubt the well to do would want to spend money unnecessarily so our weavers could well have been set the task of copying some of the lace, possibly aided by some of Catherine's ladies (or their servants) which developed into our own industry, prior to the refugees arriving who likely joined with those similarly employed (for ease of work and sales) where ideas and patterns may have been shared. That's what I think, but none of us were there at the time so we will never really know! Jane Partridge Brian wrote: There is little doubt in my mind that the settlers must have made a real contribution to English lace making wherever they settled, and so too did the English businessmen make it a combined and profitable English business. As to the origin of lace in that 1590s ( plus or minus), I leave that point to be argued by others who know better than me. Brian - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
