Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
The dress style advertised by this fashion doll dates to about 1794, with a brocade gown and an open front skirt over a muslin petticoat. A cross-body shawl, also known as a "sontag" (although that name was not popularized until the mid-19th century) added warmth, while it left the arms free for movement. The flower-trimmed hat was common in the period, as were parasols. Such hats were worn over elaborate hairstyles.
Since the Renaissance, fashion dolls were used, often in royal courts, to communicate the latest fashions and fabrics. While this doll represents circa 1794 fashions, it is unclear when the doll was made, perhaps after 1820. It is one in a set of eight fashion dolls spanning circa 1787 to 1820. The doll was dated "1794" by its creator or an early collector.
About This Item
- Title: Parasol fashion doll, ca. 1794
- Creation Date: circa 1820
- Subject Date: circa 1794
- Media: wood, silk
- Local Code: 4270*d
- Object Type: Physical Object
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
- Clothing & dress--United States--History--18th century
- Fashion
- Fashion dolls
- Toys
- United States--History--1783-1815
Other Keywords
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website
This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. No Permission is required to use the low-resolution watermarked image for educational use, or as allowed by the applicable copyright. For all other uses, permission is required.
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