About this episode
Lace is, by definition, useless. Whether is it is woven, crocheted, knitted, or made with needles or bobbins, lace is an adornment. And it has been a part of human history since (at least) the 1000s CE. We take you on a tour of lace from South America to Switzerland to South India, and show how lace has not only decorated clothing and table linens across the world, but has also changed domestic and foreign policy. We talk about the first lace pattern book, the curtains in Louis XIV's miniature boats at Versailles, and a courtesan's unique bed covering. Tune in to hear more! Find thorough show notes with all of our sources here: https://tinyurl.com/2sbxapuc Do you have a question or a topic we should cover? Email us at handmadehistoryhosts@gmail.com ! You can also find us on Instagram , Tumblr , and now on Blue Sky . Thanks for listening!