Stocking
Date1690-1725
OriginEngland
MediumSilk knitted; metallic threads needlework
DimensionsW: (each cut piece) at top: 4 1/2"; L: 26 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1958-410,A&B
DescriptionStocking document in 2 pieces; deep rose silk knitted in stockinette, with top cuffs (3 1/8") in stripes of blue, ivory, rose. Clock decoration at ankles embroidered in form of vase with stylized flower motif in colored silks (yellow, green, blue, ivory) and silver threads.Label TextFiber, Fabric, and Fortune:The decorative knit or embroidered motifs on the ankles of a pair of stockings were referred to as clocks. While silk clocking in complementary colors was popular, buyers with money to spare could pay for stockings adorned with metallic threads. In 1772, Fisher's Stocking Warehouse in London advertised "ladies and gentlemen's superfine white silk hose with silver clocks, richly pearled and spangled", noted to be "extremely popular for full dress or the masked balls."ProvenanceUnknown date, Frewan family (Brickwell, Northian, Sussex, England); prior to 1958, Amy Pleadwell (Boston, MA); 1958, purchased by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)
