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.

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Damask Evening Dress
1820-24

Silk damask dresses are more unusual, so this one is a little special. The silk is soft with a really beautiful design. The rouleau edged trims are delightful. A nice project for a conservator.


Cataloguing

The terracotta and ivory silk woven with small flowerheads, the bodice with large scoop neck, softly horizontal folds to the bosom area, the centre with a rouleau trimmed strip with similar to the outer sides, puff sleeves each with two extra puffs, embellished with three vertical rouleau double trims and piped cuffs, the back opening with narrow linen ties to neck and waist, the back with rouleau trim seams from back puff to waist, the skirt flat to front and sides, but fuller at the back, the waistline slightly gathered at centre back with linen cords, a side slit to the back right hand side (for a pocket), the hem border with a double padded trim running through the large rouleau trim bows or leaves placed slightly on the diagonal.



Bust: 34 in; 87 cm



Shoulder to hem 55 in; 1.40 m


Condition

The seam has come undone under one puff sleeve, but easier enough to sew. One side of the back openings needs a few stitches. One of the linen cord waist trims is missing. The double padded lamb's wool trim, which would have been light in weight, has virtually all the silk cover removed. This would not be a difficult job to restore. The very bottom hem which has padding is damaged and needs some work. Ask for photos of damage. For once there are no front stains, but as you look at the dress, there is one to the left hand side which travels round to the back. It is not so noticeable hanging amongst the folds of the skirt. It is basically 17 in; 43 cm long and about 1 in; 3 cm deep, but not a solid stain. Ask for photos.