Apron

Date1730-1740

MediumRibbed silk with couched gilt metallic needlework.

DimensionsOW: 39 1/2"; OH: 19"

Credit LineGift of Anonymous Donors

Object number1971-1539

DescriptionApron of ivory ribbed silk taffeta with an elaborately couched and embroidered pattern of stylized pomegranates or seed pods, carnations, buds, and fanciful scrolling leaves within an outer border of curving lines and leaves that follow the scalloped outlines of the apron. The decoration is executed in metallic threads and paillettes (sequins). The waist is pleated onto a ribbon waistband.
Label TextSome aprons were fashionable, not functional. Short silk aprons with elaborate silk and metallic needlework were especially stylish in the 1730s and early 1740s. This professionally embroidered apron has shiny gilt embroidery and sequins, sometimes called "paillettes."

ProvenanceEx Coll. Mrs. D. C Cohen. A tag from the apron reads, "Mar 12, 46/ Mrs. DeWitt C. Cohen/ Gold embroidered white silk Queen Ann apron--Very stunning." An old exhibit label in file reads: "APRON EMBROIDERED IN METAL THREAD/ ENGLISH, EARLY XVIII CENTURY/ Lent by Mrs. De Witt Clinton Cohen, 1935/ L. 3235.3"

Exhibition(s)