Flounce of Guipure Lace Late 17th-early 18th centuries France Linen thread, needlepoint 60 x 177 cm The pattern of the Hermitage lace was composed in the style of the renowned French ornamental artist Jean Berain, who composed designs for the French lacemaking centre at Alencon. In the second half of the 17th century the great French statesman Jean-Baptiste Colbert invited Italian lacemakers to teach the French the secrets of their art, but the ornamental designs of French guipures are distinguished from Italian examples by their greater elegance.