Condition:
The overall condition is good structurally with the following:
Structural Issues: The bodice is a little drier and stiffer at the top shoulders and there are some variations in the embroidered collar. Loose threads hang from the collar at the front and back edges. The internal tie backs on the skirt, while still attached on each side, are broken unevenly with a part still tied. There are several loose threads throughout the hemline embroidery and the back leather extension at the waistband has dried, is brittle, and is no longer viable to hold tension, barely still attached.
Split/Separated Seams: The skirt waist band is partially detached on the back left near the extension.
Losses: Based on the overall design of the dress, a third apron piece or waist band appears to be missing which would have hidden the joining two pieces. The bodice front hook closure is detached but is maintained with the piece. The skirt has several worn areas and holes along the bottom hemline especially at the center back.
Fading/Color Change: The dress has darkened overall due to age and soiling.
Soiling/Spots: Both pieces have many soiled areas. The bodice has an overall mottled light brown spotting throughout with more extensive soiling along the shoulders, each arm at elbows and around sleeve cuffs. The front right collar has a darker brown spot just above the chest. The skirt has a mottled orange spotting throughout the entire skirt, especially around the upper hips and there is a darker spot on the front right side seam 5th panel down from waist. There is a large brown spot on the back left side of the opening.
Repairs/Alterations: The center back skirt has a 5" extension that was made of leather with an additional set of hook eyes added. Tie backs were added later at some point directly to the side skirt panels.
Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.
The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.
The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.
Please email for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.
