Russian Antique Alencon Lace Pillow Sham 19 c. This is one exquisite Alencon lace pillow sham that is 40 X 40 inches. It was meant to cover the pillows during the day and are taken off at night. Alencon lace is a French needlepoint lace with a floral design on a sheer net background. French Point D'alenзon, needle lace made in the French city of Alenзon, one of the centres designated by Jean-Baptiste Colbert , minister of finance under Louis XIV, for aid in his effort to make French laces financially and artistically competitive with imported laces. Venetian workers, experts in making point de Venise, were brought in to instruct the local needlewomen, who quickly learned… This piece is delicate and there is some minor damage to it which I have pictured. It needs washed but I have decided not to do it myself and will leave it up to the buyer. Exquisite collector's piece.