A bobbin lace, characteristically flat with the ground and pattern made from the same thread, worked by one person and in one piece. The technique originated in 17thC Valenciennes, northern France, and was taken to Belgium during the 18thC political turmoil. Valenciennes lace was originally made from the highly reputed locally grown and spun flax–the quality of its material, craftsmanship and intricacy was reflected in the high value placed on this lace.. The smoothness and strength of this finely woven lace made it suitable to edge underwear and linen sheets and pillows– those items that lie close to the skin, and those that need repeated washings.
The lace motifs have changed over the years, though typically feature flowers and flowing scrolls on a simple geometric ground.