Images(3)

Bodice

Date1795-1805

MediumCotton, linen

DimensionsOL neck to waist, down center back 9 ½ in.
Sleeve Length 22 in.
Bust 25 in.

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-144

DescriptionWoman’s bodice made of white cotton embroidered with tambour work in white thread. Design consists of stems, leaves, and florals. Bodice has high waistline, ending just under the bust, and long sleeves shaped to curve over the elbow. Wrist openings at the sleeves. Bodice has a center front closure intended to be pinned to fasten. Bodice back is cut high at the neck, and there are diamond shaped seams in the center back. Bodice is lined with linen. Stitching at center back waist suggests that there may have been a skirt attached.Label TextThe late 18th and early 19th century saw drastic changes in women's fashion. Hips widened by panniers narrowed closer to the natural form, and the longer, conical torsos of the mid-18th century made way for the raised waistlines that defined the early 1800s. The stylistic influence of Neoclassicism popularized lightweight muslin gowns, which imitated classical drapery. This bodice epitomizes these changes, featuring a high waistline and lightweight cotton, embroidered with tambour worked florals.ProvenancePrior to 1984 passed by descent to Doris Fleming [1920-2009] (Richmond, VA); 1984 given to the Valentine Museum (Richmond, VA); 2023-present given to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation