2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Collar.

Images(2)

2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Collar, flat view.

Falling Bands

Date1780-1830

MediumLinen, plain weave, two weights. Linen and cotton sewing threads (cotton probably later repair)

DimensionsOW: 14 3/4", including tabs. OH with bands extended, approx. 10" Gathered fabric height as worn, approximately 2 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1953-863

DescriptionWhite linen stock with finer linen bands that hang down at the front. 8 3/4" of fullness is gauged (or finely pleated) into coarser linen tabs, one with 3 eyelets for slipping through a stock buckle's prongs. The other tab is tapered, extending about 3 1/2" from the gathered stock, intended to slide through the buckle. Two rectangular bands of finer linen about 3 1/4" wide by 5 1/4 to 7 1/4" long (shorter at center front). Bands are attached to the edge on the front of the gathered stock. Bands have 3/8" hems.
Label TextFor dressy and formal occasions, men wore strips of fine white linen or cotton around their necks. Stocks were gathered or pleated to tabs that buckled or tied at the back of the neck. One of the tabs typically had worked buttonholes that lined up with the knobs or prongs of a removable metal stock buckle. Stock buckles can be identified by their knobs along one side for slipping onto the stock's tab. The longer tapered tab of the stock was pulled through the buckle and cinched tight.

Stocks came in several styles. Stocks with hanging linen bands, called "short bands," were worn by clergymen, barristers, and academics. These stocks became symbolic of the learned professions.

ProvenanceEx Coll. James Frere, Bluemantle Pursuivant, College of Heralds, London Museum, Lancaster House

Exhibition(s)