Lace came to America more than 400 years ago. Lightweight, easy to pack, it was an expression of civilized European lifestyle, and brought with it the optimism for a similar life in the New World. Over time, lace defied hardship, celebrated socio-economic advancement, indulged the wealthy, often in unexpected formats.
On Tuesday, July 26, lace specialist Beverly Wolov will explore this fascinating history in the lecture Lace in American Material Culture: Wealth, Refinement, Sex. The free lecture, which is presented by the Berkshire County Historical Society at Arrowhead begins at 5 pm.
Beverly E. Wolov has an M.A in the History of Decorative Arts from the Smithsonian/Corcoran College of Art and Design. Her background is in fashion history, specializing in lace and material culture. Ms. Wolov photographs and identifies lace for museums, and has worked extensively with the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and Mount Vernon, among others.
