Images(2)

Stays

Date1735-1745

OriginEurope, France

Mediumsilk; linen (lining); marsh grass (boning); paper (behind center back turn-over), metal (brocading)

DimensionsLength: 14"; (each side) Bust: 11 1/2": Waist: 9 1/2"

Credit LineAnonymous gift

Object number1971-1560

DescriptionStays with shoulder straps; made from two pieces of green silk brocaded in shades of red, green, and metallic cord-naturalistic flowers with rocks and pools. The stays laced in front and in back. Originally there would have been another stomacher or center front piece, over which the front would have laced. Backed with linen and fully boned. The stays are made from bundles of grasses that have been folded. (Example of grass from corset in manila envelope). Lower hip tabs not covered with silk. The binding is also missing, although remanents suggest it would be orange or pink.

Construction History:
1. 1735-1745: Initial Construction
2. At a later date a horizontal boning channel was added and then removed.
3. The binds were removed and teh two front pieces were stitched together
ProvenanceEx Coll. Tomlinson