
Needle lace panel of hunting scene, c. late 19th century
Guelph Civic Museum is hosting an exhibition of lace (July 11 – November 2) from the collection of the late Margaret Ruhland. Curated by conservator and friend of Margaret Ruhland, Joyce Dawson, the exhibition showcases examples of needle, bobbin and other laces from the early 17th century to the present day.
Kenn and I went yesterday, and also stayed for a lecture by local lace collector Nancy Pye. There is an overwhelming amount of lace to see – each more impressive than the last. It is impossible to pick a favourite. I am not a lace expert by any means and can identify only a few of the more obvious patterns, so this exhibition is excellent for anyone who wants to learn more, or just take in the beautiful hand-made patterns and not worry about trying to become an expert in one visit.
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View of part of the gallery
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Early 17th century needlelace
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View of lacemaker tableau
There is also a catalogue that was just printed last month For the Love of Lace: The Ruhland Collection, written by Margaret Ruhland and Joyce Taylor Dawson. It is beautifully illustrated with exceptional photographs. I couldn’t find it for sale online anywhere, but it is available from the Guelph Civic Museum, and you might be able to search for it via the ISBN 978-0-9918365-0-5 once it is in the hands of a distributor.
Read more in this article from the Guelph Mercury newspaper.