Images(2)

Dress

Date1810-1815

MediumSilk, wool

DimensionsOL from shoulder to hem 51 in.; Waist 32 ¾ in.; Bust 35 in.

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-166

DescriptionDress made of a golden silk-wool blend woven with a brown stripe. The waistline is raised just under the bust. The dress has a straight front and gathers in the center back. The gathers can be adjusted with cotton ties. Dress fastens down the center front. The bodice has three hooks and eyes; a later addition. The skirt fastens with a series of matching fabric covered buttons and tabs. The skirt and front of the bodice are lined with brown silk. The back of the bodice is lined with cream silk. The sleeves are slightly gathered at the back of the shoulder and lined with gauze. Ruched trim at the cuffs and hem.

Construction History:
1. Dress constructed 1810-1815.
2. A set of three hooks and eyes are sewn on the bodice.
Label TextFull length, center front openings on early 19th century women's clothes are commonly associated with outerwear. However, surviving garments like the one seen here suggest that these fastenings were also present on dresses. Like a modern coat-dress, the pelisse robe of the 1810s and 1820s adapted outerwear styles for everyday.
ProvenancePrior to 1934, passed down by descent to Mrs. Walter Watson (Constance Tinsley); 1934 given to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023-present given to Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)