Images(4)

Christening Gown

Date1763

OriginEngland

MediumSilk satin, trimmed with silk ribbon; bodice and sleeves lined with tabby silk.

DimensionsOL: 31 1/2"

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Cora Ginsburg

Object number1991-552,1

DescriptionInfant's gown (and separate petticoat #2) of cream silk satin, trimmed on skirt with serpentine ruched ribbon with picot edges. Gown bodice is pleated to shape with low squared neckline and cone shape for stays. Bodice and skirt cut in one, open down front to reveal matching petticoat. Sleeves are attached to bodice, with bands over the shoulders ending in tabs; sleeves have 1 1/2" cuffs. Gown back has square neckline, with multiple pleats centered down back, releasing into skirt fullness. Pleats at side seams also release into fullness. Note: Matching Petticoat #2 is trimmed with same ribbon meander in the fronts; pleated to silk ribbon waistband with center back placket closure.
Label TextThis boy's christening gown is made in two pieces: a gown with skirt open at the front and a separate petticoat that is pleated to a narrow silk waistband. Both pieces are trimmed with applied ribbons similar to the ruchings, or trimmings, on women's gowns and petticoats.
ProvenanceAccording to a paper tag sewn to the matching coverlet, the gown dates to 1763 and belonged to Dr Barnard, Provost of Eton College. The gown must have been worn by Dr. Edward Barnard's son, Edward, who was born in 1763. The child's father, Dr. Edward Barnard, was born in 1717 and married Susanna Haggett of Barbados in 1760.

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