Antique Manila Shawl, 19th Century Silk Spanish Mantoncillo, Hand Embroidered Double Sided Macrame Fringe Wedding Shawl

Extraordinary antique Manila shawl from the 19th century, crafted in heavy natural silk with exquisite and dense double-sided (reversible) hand embroidery in a refined light blue tone on a black background. This piece stands out for its remarkable weight of 2200 grams (4.85 lbs), which evidences the profusion and exceptional technical quality of the period's embroidery.

Originating in China and popularized in Spain through the Manila Galleon trade route, these shawls became an indispensable symbol of high society and Spanish folklore during the 19th century. The laborious double-sided embroidery requires outstanding craftsmanship, where the reverse is absolutely identical to the front, with no visible knots or loose threads.

Item details:
- Period: 19th Century (circa 1880)
- Technique / Style: Reversible double-sided Cantonese hand embroidery, handcrafted knotted fringes and macramé.
- Size: Silk body measuring 145 cm x 150 cm (57.1 x 59.1 inches). Additional fringes and macramé measuring 60 cm (23.6 inches) in length.
- Weight: 2200 grams (4.85 lbs / 77.6 oz).
- Material: Pure natural silk.
- Condition: Structurally excellent, with no tears, rips, or holes in the silk fabric or the fringe work. There is a noticeable loss of color and intensity in the embroidery threads due to age and light. It requires professional dry cleaning and color restoration (re-dyeing) to restore it to its original splendor.

A magnificent collector's piece for restorers, historical textile collectors, and enthusiasts of period traditional attire.