Muff
Date1785-1810
OriginEurope, France
MediumSilk satin, paint, silk chenille and gauze, cotton stuffing, metallic sequins and bullion
DimensionsOW: 14": circumference: 18 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1958-25
DescriptionMuff of ivory silk satin, self-lined, and decorated with chenille embroidery, silk crepe flowers, and sequins in a pattern of ogival compartments, formed by interlocked thorny-stems, each containing a rosette. The oval center medallion is plate-printed on satin, and shows a classical female figure (in winged sandals) leaning on large anchor. The medallion is encircled by needlework frame of twisting vines and sequin rosettes. Colors of the needlework include brown chenille, pink silk, silver sequins, and yellow silk floss.Label TextMuff
Europe, possibly France, 1785-1810
Silk, silk chenille and gauze, metallic sequins and bullion, paint; replaced lining and cotton stuffing
1958-25
The hand-painted ornament depicts the allegorical figure of Hope with her anchor. The muff originally had strings or ribbons drawn through channels on the ends to snug the fit around the wrists. Faint stitch marks show the original position of the drawstring channels. Muffs were important fashion accessories during this period, worn even indoors.
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