Quilted/ Crewel Skirt
Early 18th c

A most unusual piece. I don't think in Britain we had petticoats quite like this. The lower band looks as if a teasel has been used to give it a nap. Never seen this before on a dress item. The pocket slits have been sewn up. The quilted top section also extends down the left hand side 19 in or 49 cm in from left hand edge, so it is L shaped. The quilting to the lower section is only noticeable when you look at the back of the piece. Ask for photos.

Williamsburg.We have it in an English 1675 crewel embroidered work bag and in linings and pockets of men's English 18th-century garments.

Cataloguing

skirt, possibly American, unpicked, probably American, the top half of cream twill weave wool and linen/cotton (fustian) mix, all quilted, the lower width of coarser wool embroidered in wools with upright flowers including tulips, gilly and pinks, the border with a flower and leaf meander, all in clear shades of crimson, pink, yellow, lime and dark green, mid and dark blue wools, the embroidered section is shell quilted, edged with cream linen braid, 33 x 7 ft 3 in or 83 x 2.2 m wide

Condition

No tears or stains. Slightly grubby and would benefit from a conservation clean (we can arrange this). Some of the wool embroidery has come away.

Price: on request

Ref N°: 7215