Waistcoat
Dateca. 1770
OriginIreland, Dublin
MediumSilk, Silver, Gold, Wood, Linen, Wool
DimensionsWaistcoat: Center front: 23 inches, Center back: 24 3/8 inches, Waist: 38 inches, Chest: 39 inches, Buttons: 3/4 inches
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2021-62,2
DescriptionBrocaded to shape waistcoat made from silk, silver, and gold threads, embroidered over top with pink and gold foils, multicolored spangles, and silver bullion threads. The waistcoat was woven as a straight panel and shaped through the waist by taking out a wedge to create the skirt and a small dart at the neck. It is lined in the same green silk as the coat. Buttonholes were worked in gold through the exterior fabric and the garment was then lined. The buttonholes were then cut open through the lining. The waistcoat is lined in linen (faced in the green silk). The center back interior is linen, but the exterior is silk. In between the silk and linen layer is an interlining of cream wool serge. It seems as if this was intended to be made this way, as there is no sign of alteration.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.
