Set
c. 1856
Silk brocade, silk cord, and fringe
Museum purchase
Object numberP82.5.3
Alterations to old garments sometimes indicate that they were adapted for theater or costume. The bodice and skirt of this dress — once two separate pieces — were stitched together for ease of wear, and a panel of fabric was added to the center back bodice to expand it to a larger size. The skirt hem was significantly shortened, changing the gown’s proportions.
DescriptionDress and capelet in olive green and brown brocaded silk, floral and snowflake pattern; cape trimmed with olive green silk cording and taupe and dark green fringe with round neckline, points at CF and CB waist; dress has boned bodice with wide neckline, pointed waist, 3/4 bell sleeves with fringe at shoulders, and cartridge pleated skirtCollections
Exhibitions