Rare, unusual and interesting antique costumes and textiles; for museums and collectors looking for that extra special piece, for new and established collectors and for those with a modest budget who want to adorn their person or home.

SOLD

Queen Victoria's
late 19th c

Although this is not initialled the petticoat came from Balmoral together with a pair of Queen Victoria's drawers (with cipher). The size is exactly right and the valencienne lace is exactly the same as I have on other initialled garments. It was suggested to me by a curator at Historic Royal Palaces, Kensington Palace, that there may have been underwear that was finished, waiting to have monogram embroidered on, when Queen Victoria died. This seems a logical suggestion. Staniland, Kay In Royal Fashion p 166 for similar lace. The petticoat has been taken up. This is consistent with information about Queen Victoria's clothes. As she got older she got shorter and her clothes had to have tucks. Although the measurement given of 45 in is waist, she tended to wear her underclothes further down on her hips, because she found them more comfortable.


Cataloguing

petticoat of fine cotton curved waistband, the back with two covered buttons, a small buttonhole nearby (to attach the chemise), a further button on the gathered skirt, a deep pocket split, deep gathered frill 10 in; 17 cm deep with 1 in; 3 cm flap, the hem with hand made lace, the deep frill with an under layer, waist 45 in;116 cm


Condition

Very good.