Jacqueline Kennedy's fine black floral and leaf pattern lace chapel veil with scalloped edges. Mrs. Kennedy gave this mantilla to Mary Gallagher during the pre-White House years. Measures approximately 60 x 23''.

Jacqueline Kennedy was seen wearing a similar black mantilla when she visited the Vatican to meet Pope John XXIII on March 11, 1962. Although it is unable to be confirmed, this mantilla could be the same one. Jacqueline was also often photographed wearing a mantilla before or after attending a Catholic Church service.

The mantilla was first made popular in Spain during the 17th and 18th centuries and actively encouraged by Queen Isabella II in the 19th century. The black veils were traditionally worn to mass by married or widowed women as a symbol of their modesty, humility, and reverence.

These items come directly from the collection of Mary Gallagher, former personal secretary to Mrs. Kennedy from 1957 to 1964, and whose book My Life with Jacqueline Kennedy was an international best-seller.To learn more please visit, www.guernseys.com