Stays
Date1760-1775
OriginAmerica (possibly)
MediumWool, linen (lining, thread), leather (lining), boning
DimensionsWaist: 28 1/2"-29"; Chest: 32 1/2"; L. Center Front: 14"; L. Center Back: 15"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1993-336
DescriptionWoman's strapless boned stays of brown tabby wool, made with tabs at the waist and a high, squared back. Stays are made to lace up the front with thread worked eyelets that have remnants of leather reinforcement on the lacing side. The exterior textile has holes through which one can see blue and white check linen innerlining beneath the outer covering of brown wool. Brown linen lining worn next to the body. Beneath the lining is a stiffened linen innerlining and additional innerlinings at tabs and front point. Stays are heavily boned with unknown material(s). White leather binds some outside edges and tab facings. White tape trim is applied over the seams. Remnants of worsted twill binding survive at lower side fronts.Construction History:
1. 1760-1775: Initial Construction
2. at some point during original use the side front and back of the stays were cut down, possibly straps were removed, and re-bound with twill tape as opposed to the original leather. The leather lining on the tabs has also been patched or reinforced with more leather.
Label TextThese strapless stays laced up the front instead of the back. This arrangement made them more convenient for pregnant and nursing women and for those who did not have assistance getting dressed.
ProvenanceNot known.
