£620
18th century overdress for evening or promenade, 1770's, in brocaded ivory silk lined with fine linen. The dress has a close fitting stayed bodice, pocket holes, a slight train and 3 pairs of internal ties that form 'pick ups' to kilt up the skirt and create shortening, giving a puff effect (sometimes referred to as 'a la Polonaise'), which would reveal the under skirt. Waist approx 60cm/24"The garment is entirely hand stitched with finely worked gathers at the waist to give a sculpted shape. The silk fabric is medium weight with delicate stripes of tiny shapes woven with pink and green flushing warp threads. The weave has a further decorative effect with flower motifs woven through the weft. This skilled brocading technique suggests the fabric was made either in France or under the French influence of the Spitalfields silk industry. The fabric integrity is surprisingly good with a few splits but no major evidence of shattering. Staining in several areas including bottom part of sleeves and lower hem. Perspiration marks to underarms. Photos show dress with added pink underskirt and green front panel for display purposes. Green panel is placed where dress bodice sections should meet and overlap.
In addition to comments in description; note that in 2 areas (lower front sections) colours from the silk patterning have bled into the ivory coloured background, as shown in condition report photos. Photos also show splits along lower hemline and the dirtiness of the fabric along the hemline
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Room and Absentee Bids:
21.60% inc VAT*
Online and Autobids:
25.2% inc VAT*
