Images(2)

Bodice

Date1790-1805

MediumSilk, linen

DimensionsOL neck to waist, down center back 9 ½ in.
Sleeve length 22 in.
Bust 31 in.

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-145

DescriptionWoman’s bodice made of cream-colored silk. Bodice has a raised waistline, deep, square neckline, and two piece, long sleeves shaped to curve over the elbow. Wrist openings at the end of the sleeves. Bodice has center front closure intended to be pinned to fasten.Label TextThe 1790s was a transitional period in women's fashion. Hips widened by panniers narrowed closer to the natural form, and the longer, conical torsos of the mid-18th century made way for the raised waistlines that defined the early 1800s. Bodices like these, with waistlines just under the natural bust, may have been worn as individual garments with separate skirts, worn as outerwear as a predecessor to the spencer (ca. 1800-1830), or with skirts attached as a gown.ProvenancePrior to 1984 passed by descent to Doris Fleming (Richmond, VA); 1984 given to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023-present given to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)