Established in 1978 on the site of an old school of lacemaking on the island of Burano, Venice, the Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) reveals the craft of lace and embroidery, practised by Venetian specialists for centuries.
Venice's Lace Museum contains more than 100 exhibits of lacework, including pictures, documents, patterns and details of the manufacturing process, and is well worth a visit for both the amateur and the hardcore enthusiast. It also organises professional courses in lacework, plus talks and exhibitions.
The first records of the merletto, with its particular designs and techniques, appeared in Venice around the 15th century. Its origins probably lie in Asia Minor and Greece, but with time it became irrevocably linked to Venice. By the 19th century, however, the Venetian craft was in decline and out of fashion with patterns being lost as practitioners and artisans died of old age. Thanks to the Lace Museum, merletto has managed to make its mark in the 21st century.
Please note: Venice's Lace Museum is closed for restoration works until 1 April 2009.
The first records of the merletto, with its particular designs and techniques, appeared in Venice around the 15th century. Its origins probably lie in Asia Minor and Greece, but with time it became irrevocably linked to Venice. By the 19th century, however, the Venetian craft was in decline and out of fashion with patterns being lost as practitioners and artisans died of old age. Thanks to the Lace Museum, merletto has managed to make its mark in the 21st century.
Please note: Venice's Lace Museum is closed for restoration works until 1 April 2009.
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