Images(5)

Dress

Dateca. 1790, altered ca. 1800

OriginEngland

MediumCotton

DimensionsOL: 56"

Credit LineGift of Tasha Tudor

Object number2000-132

DescriptionWoman's dress of cream cotton, block printed with widely scattered flower clusters in reds and black with pencil blue. Short plain elbow-length sleeves have a horizontal tuck one-third of the way up from the elbow. As currently constructed, the gown has a deep scoop neckline and very high waistline with 9 1/2-inch front placket opening and drawstring. A thread bride reinforces the bottom of the placket. The gown originally had a four-inch longer bodice, the excess length of which is hidden on the interior, suggesting an original date of about 1790. The back bodice is cut very narrow between the shoulders, measuring about six inches wide, with curving seams for shaping. The rear neckline is bound with self fabric. The skirt has a triple inverted box pleat at the center back to give extra fullness. The hem circumference measures about 97 inches. The bodice is lined with linen; the original sleeve linings have been cut out.
Label TextSmall-scale printed sprigs were especially suitable for clothing and quilt pieces. The red and brown were block printed using madder. The indigo blue was then brushed or drawn on in a technique known as penciling.

The gown originally had a longer bodice suggesting a date about 1790, but was later brought up-to-date when waistlines rose to a position immediately under the bust.

MarkingsThe textile has blue threads in the selvages, indicating English production between 1774 and 1811.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of Tasha Tudor.