Object: Corset
Date: 1845-1855
Medium: Silk, linen, cotton, and brass
Country: USA
Credit Line: Museum purchase
Object number: 2014.4.1
DescriptionPeacock blue stays / boned corset in silk, attached shoulder straps tie at front bodice with ribbon ties laced through brass eyelet grommets; brass busk at CF with four hooks at right side and four studded eyes at left side; straight front neckline with high rounded CF, U at back; shaped bust with two gore panels; fitted waist; shaped hip; high waist length, low rounded CF hem, split vents at front princess points; CB lace closure, 35 pairs (70) brass metal eyelet grommets at CB; hand embroidered arrow head design at front and back in silk thread; lighter blue silk binding at neckline, armholes and shoulder straps, cotton binding at hem; natural linen lining; laces not original, binding at hem possibly not original; hem may have been cut and restyled at a later date
Label Text:This corset features a metal busk down the center front with hook and eye closures, which would have allowed the wearer to get in and out of it on her own. This innovation was first introduced in 1829 and was widely available after 1850. It is just one of many technological developments introduced during the 19th century, including metal eyelet holes and steam molding.
In Collection(s)
Exhibitions:
- Exposed: A History of Lingerie
- The Body: Fashion and Physique