Gown
Date1770-1780
MediumSilk, linen
DimensionsOL: 54; Waist approx: 27"; Fabric width: 23 3/8"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1983-229
DescriptionWoman's gown of pink, cream, and green striped silk with areas of "chine" patterning dyed in the warp to create a clouded pattern in the stripes. Gown is made with a fitted bodice and a rounded low neckline with drawstring. Center front closes edge-to-edge with pins and is slightly curved below the waistline. Bodice back has stitched-down pleats, extending in one piece into the skirt at the center back, so-called "English Back." Sleeves are cut on crosswise of fabric and pleated at the inner elbows for shaping. Sleeves are trimmed with satin ribbon bows matching the gown patterning and double ruffles ending in bobbin lace. The full skirt is pleated to the bodice and is open at center-front to reveal a petticoat (matching petticoat does not survive). The skirt consists of 5 panels of 23 3/8" fabric. Hems are bound with silk tape. Skirt has pocket slits. Skirt had thread loops near the front edge, possibly for buttoning up in polonaise style.The sleeves and bodice are lined in linen.1765-1775
ca. 1750, altered ca. 1775
1760-1770
1763
1750-1765
ca. 1780
1780-1789
Textile ca. 1740; gown 1770-1776
1745-1750 (textile); gown ca. 1780, gown remade ca. 1845
1780-1790
1775-1785
Ca. 1780