Ruffle

Date1740-1760

MediumCotten (fabric), Linen (thread for embroidery)

DimensionsDepth: 7 1/2"; Length: 37 1/8".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1985-130

DescriptionUnmade shaped sleeve ruffle, graduated in width, embroidered with white linen threads in satin stitch with deflected threads and drawn work on sheer white cotton ground. Design of leaves, flowers and pomegrante shapes. Thread count of ground fabric is 80 x 80 threads per inch.

Construction History:
1. 1740-1760: initial constructionLabel TextSleeve ruffles were usually shaped to be narrower at the inside crook of the arm, gradually lengthening so they fell gracefully from the back of the elbow. This unmade example shows the shape of the ruffle before it was gathered to a tape for pinning or stitching into the woman's gown sleeve.