Christening Gown

Date1820-1840

MediumCotton, Lace (Ayrshire), Copper Alloy (buttons)

DimensionsOverall Length: 41.5 inches Chest: 19 inches

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2022-64,20

DescriptionA white cotton hand sewn Christening gown with insets of Ayrshire lace. The gown is cut in an “A” line shape with a triangular center front section bordered to each side in Ayrshire lace and white work. Like wise the center front of the gown has a combination of whitework floral motifs and Ayrshire lace. The sleeves gathered into small puffs. A casing runs through the neck edge and waist. Several small covered buttons decorate the front and back of the gown with small embroidered floral springs.
Label TextChristening gowns by the 1820s become masterpieces of floral white work embroidery and Ayrshire lace. This example would have been probably purchased ready-made or specially commissioned by the family and survives today in remarkable shape.
ProvenanceA collection of 28 pieces of infant clothing (all 2022-64 accession numbers) descended through various branches of the Medlycott family of Ven House in Somerset, England. The baronetcy was created in 1808 and became extinct in 2021 with the death of Sir Mervyn Tregonwell Medilycott, the 9th Baron of Medlycott. Sadly these garments do not have association with specific members of the family, but were all found stored in The Manor House, Sandford Orcas, in Dorset, England, the home of Sir Mervyn Tregonwell Medilycott, the 9th Baron of Medlycott.