Uncut Waistcoat Panel
Date1785-1790s
MediumCream silk twill, silk embroidery thread, silver metallic thread, sequins, cream silk thread.
Dimensions22 1/8" x 31 1/2"
Credit LineGift of Mr. William Strole.
Object number1993-38
DescriptionUnmade waistcoat of cream silk twill, with green striped selvages, embroidered with multicolor floss silks. Includes panels to construct a waistcoat; collar, center front with two pockets, and nine fabric covered buttons. The pockets are attached using running stitches. Embroidered design includes a floral motif with green, yellow, blue, pink, and red threads; these display stylized shells, flowers, and leaves. Sequins and metallic thread are used to decorate; specifically, the trim is constructed of metallic thread. The cut edges of the silk are finished with a whip stitch. An ink oval stamp is included in the rear corner, possibly saying "Babin".MarkingsInk oval stamp on rear corner; words not decipherable.
ProvenanceEx. Coll Mrs. Evelyn Kendall, a collector from Sharon, Massachusetts, who gave the waistcoat to William Strole around 1970. Mrs. Kendall was married to Henry Kendall of Kendall Mills, which subsequently moved to South Carolina.
