Stunning Imperial yellow colour, a very fashionable colour during the 18th century. I always think that the colour came from seeing Chinese court robes.
The yellow silk woven with a small repeat diamond design, the bodice's deep scooped neck with front fastening, with rounded lower bodice, the skirt pleated with slightly larger pleats to the front, the back bodice with square neck and central vertical pleats to back centre down into the skirt, two curved seams from back shoulder to waist, the elbow length sleeves with wide pleats at shoulders, shaped and with ruched cuffs, the bodice lined with white cotton, four white tapes inside skirt to pull into a polonaise, trained skirt.
Shoulder to front hem 47 in; 1.20 m. Shoulder to back hem 55 in; 1.40 m
Bust 36-38 in; 97 cm.
Silk width selvedge to selvedge
There are feint underarm markings to the silk. Also to the left and right bodice front you will see some slight markings. By placing a fichu on the mannequin this can be covered. Original tape ties. No alterations.
Costume in Detail Nancy Bradfield p65 for similar shape gown.
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