Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
This three-piece ensemble with a dress, vest, and underskirt, was likely the product of a home seamstress. Its simple silhouette relied on texture, layers, and accents of bold color for the 1880s style. Made mostly from a textured knobby weave wool, cotton, and silk blend, the front panel is a gray silk taffeta. Royal blue taffeta accents appear throughout. Draped fabric created the bustle silhouette, gathered with bustle ties. A pillow likely supported the bustle, or a narrow crinolette.
This ensemble is a rare example in both fabric and construction. Likely worn by a person of more modest means, as evidenced by its construction, its wearer was fashion conscious, and creative with texture and color. The piece is associated with either Mabel (Little) Boynton of Jefferson or Rose (Perkins) Hale of Boston, Massachusetts.
About This Item
- Title: Knobby weave two-piece ensemble, ca. 1880
- Creation Date: circa 1880
- Subject Date: circa 1880
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Locations:
- Jefferson, Lincoln County, ME
- Boston, Suffolk County, MA
- Media: wool, cotton, silk
- Local Code: 2019.214.004
- Collection: Costume collection
- Object Type: Physical Object
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For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
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