Life

Bjankarija, from the Italian biancheria (bed linen), was once an essential part of a bride’s dowry. Skilled hands produced endless meters of lace to decorate it, and pattern designs were closely guarded secrets. Richly embroidered bjankarija was rarely used—it was often displayed over windows under the pretense of airing, though the true intent was to stir envy. Jealousy sometimes led to acts of sabotage, with rival women destroying each other’s linen. Today, old bjankarija gathers dust in closets or is carelessly thrown away. Along with it, a precious piece of heritage has been discarded, replaced by what is cheap and practical.