Images(8)

Coat

Dateca. 1770

OriginIreland, Dublin

MediumSilk, Silver, Gold, Wood, Linen, Wool, Green Foil, Paste Board

DimensionsCenter front: 41 1/2 in.; Waist: 37 in.; Chest: 42 in.

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2021-62,1a-c

DescriptionDrab broadcloth coat lined with green silk taffeta, trimmed with worked bows and tassels. The coat has a very narrow collar. The pocket flaps are seamed onto the body of the coat, but are not functional. Two working “cross” pockets are in the interior front of the coat. A single layer of cream colored buckrum runs down the center front of each side of the coat. The center front has an additional stay tape that runs down the front edge from neck to hem. The center front, back and pleat edges are piped in the lining material. The center back lining is silk and is cut on a fold, but a tuck is taken to fit the back.

Construction History:
Initial Construction: 1765-1775
Alteration: Some time well past the intial construction, the coat was neatly and expertly let out from the side seams and the sleeves. The ruffles and wig bag may have been added at that point for fancy dress. The alteration appears to have been done by hand.

InscribedTape tag in the neck is hand written in ink and say "Dennis"
ProvenanceThis coat and waistcoat probably belonged to James Dennis (1721–15 June 1782), 1st Baron Tracton.