ABSTRACT
In the second half of the nineteenth century, the application of valances as decoration was common in order to finish a mantelpiece. They were often embellished with embroidery and passementerie. As mantel hangings, or valances have now become an accepted portion of household decoration. For the ornamentation of valances and other mantel-shelf drapings, all kinds of embroidery are used; applique work is a favorite enrichment; couching in silks and gold threads another; solid embroidery is much affected, and in addition to these, and especially with the lambrequins, a coarse ribbon work, plush flower-work, and filagret or tinsel flower appliqués are popular. Couching is one of the most elegant forms of adorning a valance, gold appearing with lovely effect on pale silver green plushes, pale pomegranate, ‘old pink,’ amber, dull purple and ivory white, peach bloom plush and fair, dull blues.
