Images(3)

Gown or Frock

Dateca. 1710

OriginEngland

MediumSilk needlework on tabby linen through linen innerlining; lined and trimmed with silk.

DimensionsOL:28" OW:30"; shoulder width across back: 5 3/4"

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Cora Ginsburg

Object number1989-441

DescriptionBoy's gown or frock of cream tabby linen, embroidered with multicolor silks in a design of serpentine vines with exotic flowers and leaves against a background of yellow silk backstitch quilting in vermicelli pattern. Embroidery is worked through top textile and white linen innerlining. Gown is collarless, open down the front without closures. Long sleeves curve over elbows and end in 2 to 2 3/8" cuffs. Full skirts cut in one with bodice (no waist seam). Rectangular pocket flaps, lined with green silk, open to reveal functional pockets of napped cotton/linen twill ("fustian"). Back bodice is narrow, widening at waistline to full skirts. All seams and edges are trimmed with green silk tape. Garment is fully lined with green silk tabby.
Label TextA masterpiece of design and technique, the embroidery on this frock was the product of professional needleworkers. Little boys wore skirted garments until they received their first pair of breeches, anywhere from 4 to 7 years of age.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of Roger Warner, England; then owned by Cora Ginsburg. Tag in pocket reads "241, Roger Warner, Exhibit Label Enclosed, International Art Weavers Exhibition." Exhibited in the Third International Art Treasures Exhibition, Victoria and Albert Museum, 2 March-29 April 1962, London.

Exhibition(s)