Maternity Waistcoat

Date1780-1795

MediumCotton quilted to cotton with linen thread; cotton batting; linen trim

DimensionsOL: 20"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-666,2

DescriptionUnder vest belonging to three-piece ensemble of quilted white cotton with thin cotton wadding and coarse cotton backing. Under waistcoat is sleeveless with high neckline. Open, straight front extends to shaped points below natural waist. Only front panels and back shoulder area are quilted in diamond pattern; lower back panel is plain cotton with worked eyelets to adjust size. Seams turned out. Garment is intended to wear under jacket to fill in enlarging waistline of pregnancy.

Construction History:

1. 1780-1795: Initial Construction
2. February 17, 1954: Repairs by Ernest LoNanoLabel TextThis is part of a rare three-piece maternity ensemble (1936-666,1-3). This sleeveless vest, which has adjustable lacings at the center back, expanded the waist size for use during pregnancy. A matching over-jacket covered up the back of the vest, but was worn open at the front and laced across the front of the vest.ProvenancePrior to 1936, Lenygon & Morant (London, England); 1936, purchased by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)