ROYAL Antique Pair of Lace Handkerchiefs with Tuscany–Württemberg Double Coat of Arms from the Wedding Trousseau of Archduchess Maria Immakulata, c. 1900

This exceptional pair of antique lace handkerchiefs, dating to around 1900, represents a rare and museum‑worthy ensemble from the personal trousseau of Maria Immakulata, born Archduchess of Austria, Princess of Tuscany, and later Duchess of Württemberg. As a member of the Habsburg‑Tuscany line, she was closely connected to several imperial dynasties: sister‑in‑law of Marie‑Valerie (daughter of Empress Elisabeth “Sisi”), a great‑great‑granddaughter of Emperor Leopold II, and a direct descendant of Empress Maria Theresa.

Both handkerchiefs were created around the time of her marriage to Duke Robert of Württemberg on 29 October 1900 in Vienna, for which an extensive and luxurious wedding trousseau was commissioned. High‑quality lace handkerchiefs were costly prestige items even at the time and were often presented as personal gifts by distinguished guests.

The first handkerchief is crafted from fine cotton batiste and framed with delicate Valenciennes bobbin lace. At its center, it features an extraordinary heraldic motif: the double coats of arms of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and Württemberg, positioned beneath a crown. This rare dynastic emblem underscores the noble lineage of its owner and adds significant provenance value. The piece survives in excellent, unused condition, remarkable for such a fragile textile.

The second handkerchief, equally refined, is made of fine cotton batiste with delicate bobbin lace and bears the embroidered monogram of Maria Immakulata. The monogram is executed with exceptional precision, reflecting the aristocratic standards of craftsmanship associated with high‑ranking Habsburg family members. Like the first, it remains in excellent, unused condition, an extraordinary state of preservation.

The jewels of Maria Immakulata were sold for several million euros at Sotheby’s Geneva in November 2023, underscoring the enduring historical and cultural significance of her personal estate. These two handkerchiefs, acquired together with other rare objects from the estate of Dr. Alexander Eugen Duke of Württemberg (1933–2024), offer a rare opportunity to own a pair of royal textiles of exceptional provenance, artistry, and historical depth.

The original photographs and the antique handkerchief box are included with the item. The photos depict the bride and groom.