Stays
Date1735-1750
OriginEngland (possibly)
MediumSilk Brocade (Exterior); Linen (Lining); Baleen (Boning); Metal Rings; Silk Thread (Construction); Paper (Internal Layer)
DimensionsLength: 15 1/4; "Waist: 21" Bust: 31"
Pocket: Width: 4 3/4"; Depth: 3 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1954-279
DescriptionCovered stays with eyelets finished in cream thread for lacing in back and shoulder straps with metal rings for sleeve attachments. Stays may have had decorative lacing or other trim across the front of the bodice as indicated by thread remants along central panel. Bodice with central point and tabs at waist. Front tabs are wide with scalloped edge. Covered with cream silk brocaded in large floral pattern in shades of green, rose, and lavender with zig-zag sub pattern of warp floats creating ground pattern. Brocade overlaps eyelets at back, concealing laced. Heavily boned in baleen. Internal structure includes a layer of linen and a layer of thick paper. There are two rows of thick horizontal boning at the top near the bosom and one just above the tabs at waist level. Linen lining. Small, round pocket sewn into lining at the center front beginning at the top seam. Pocket is 4 3/4" wide and 3 1/2" deep.Construction History:
1. 1735-1750: Initially Constructed; Bodice would likely have originally had sleeve attachments that have since been lost. Likely also had decorative lacing or other trim across front bodice.
