Every tourist region in Europe that had a lacemaking tradition a half dozen cities in Belgium, a handful in France, Burano and the lagoons of Venice that made needle laces, and assorted other regions, including Hungary and Eastern European countries all made handkerchiefs especially to appeal to tourists. The cheapest ones, designed to serve as take-home tokens for friends and relatives, should not be expected to appreciate in value. They are easily duplicated even today. Those depicting buildings, national emblems, and costumed figures sometimes acquire some collector s value. Prices depend on how difficult the technique was, whether they could be duplicated today.
Commemorative handkerchiefs celebrating an event are another type of souvenir.
Lace may depict fairs and exhibitions, battles and victories. Look for flags, national emblems and dates. Some, like the war lace of World War I that depicted animals of different countries the lion, roosters, dragons, bears, and eagles may not be obvious. Where to Find Handkerchiefs Competition for fine lace handkerchiefs is keen. Just a handful of dealers in the United States specialize in fine lace and lacy linens, and they often offer the best pieces to collectors that they know will appreciate the quality.