Sleeves
Date1750-1800
OriginEngland
MediumLinen, silk
DimensionsOverall (Length): 16 3/4in. (42.5cm)
Other (Cuffs): 8in. (8in.)
Overall (Cuffs functional between button holes): 7 1/2in. (19.1cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2016-114,1&2
DescriptionPair of white linen sleeves made with identical narrow cuffs and button holes at each end. Placket openings extend 4 1/2 inches up from cuffs, reinforced by small brides that are buttonhole stitched. Linen measuring about 31 inches wide is gathered (gauged) to 8-inch cuffs and pleats are ironed in. Fine cross-stitched red marking stitches read "AB" [over] "5".Label TextDuring the eighteenth-century certain professions, trades, and everyday men required the use of protective outer garments. These shirt sleeves with gathered bands at either end that close with sleeve buttons (cufflinks) or ribbons, would have been worn over a shirt or jacket sleeve to protect the garment from getting stained or dirty. These are commonly seen in prints of butchers and surgeons during this period, protecting their garments from their often gory work. Several inventories from York County, Virginia list "sleeves" and "risbands" among other linens, which may refer to this style of protective garment.
MarkingsAB
5
