Images(2)

Unmade Waistcoat or Jumps

Date1700-1730

OriginEngland

MediumSilk needlework on linen

DimensionsA: OH: 21 1/4"; OW: 9" B: OH: 20 5/8"; OW: 9 1/8"

Credit LineNote to curator: Multiple donors for partially funded gift. Please advise format. See Registrar's note

Object number2010-120,A&B

DescriptionA and B. One front and and one back panel from an unmade silk-embroidered linen waistcoat for a woman. Imbricated scallop pattern with stylized flowerheads, finely worked in yellow silk in backstitches, 42 to 46 per inch. The borders consist of floral and foliate trails.
Label TextThese two panels were professionally embroidered for eventual use as a woman's waistcoat. One front and one back panel survive. The yellow silk backstitches were worked through the fine white linen face fabric and coarser backing, without any batting. Waistcoats were worn when women did not or could not wear heavy boned stays. Some refer to this type of unboned garment as "jumps."