Images(4)

Gown, Italian Gown

DateCa. 1785

MediumRibbed silk with warp float patterning; 4 different linen linings in bodice and sleeves, all off-white tabby weave.

DimensionsBodiceOL; 19" Waist approx.: 28", if pinned over 1/2"; OL: 53"; Textile selvage width: 19 5/8".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1976-338

DescriptionGown in two pieces made of deep purple-blue ribbed silk patterned with white supplementary warp warp flowers and lacy meanders. The bodice has low, squared neckline with center front trimmed with 7 buttons on the right side and 6 on the left (one missing), giving the look of a double-breasted bodice front, but without any functional buttonholes. Fitted sleeves are untrimmed, ending just below the elbow and cut to curve over the elbow. Bodice back has seams that curve down to low point below waist at center back. Bodice and sleeves lined with 4 different pieced up linens, all white tabby weave. Bodoce center back seams are constructed by lining each piece separately, then stitching them together, forming slight ridge on the back side. Skirt, cut apart from bodice, consists of 5 widths of silk, some very pieced up, with removed pleats at the top and narrow hem at bottom.