Waistcoat
Date1770-1785
OriginEngland
MediumPlate-printed linen tabby; back and linings of cotton and linen tabby.
DimensionsOL: 29 1/2"; Shoulder W: 11"; Waist approx. 33"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1993-338
DescriptionMan's waistcoat, sleeveless and collarless, printed to shape in brown (probably originally purple) in a design of small meandering floral vines, with scattered sprigs and leaves on the body. The waistcoat is fastened by13 fabric-covered buttons, each 1/2" in diameter, and worked buttonholes. The shaped, curved decorative pocket flaps are sewn within the printed reserve, but not constructed with functional pockets beneath. The garment is cut away on angles at center front below the buttons. The back and linings are of cotton and linen tabby. The waistcoat is pieced under the right arm with a printed fragment. The back is in two pieces, sewn down the center, with a center-back vent. There is a full lining of cotton and linen tabby.Label TextThis printed waistcoat imitates hand-embroidered garments. The individual pieces forming the front and pocket flaps were pre-printed onto flat textile yardage in the exact shapes required to make a finished garment. The yardage included additional waistcoats of similar or identical design. Evidence for this can be seen in the odd printed patch that appears under the proper right arm. The patch appears to have come from the hem of one of the other waistcoats in the series.
