Silk Moiré Taffeta Bodice and Skirt, 1860s

Beige silk moiré taffeta bodice with a center front button closure and sleeves trimmed with green brocade ribbons on the dropped shoulders and hem. Skirt has been partially unmade, revealing the overall shape of the skirt is a tube made of rectangular panels. The hem of the skirt is retained on the bottom edge, while the top, cut edge shows marks of folds and stitch holes.
Unlabeled
Mary D. Doering Archive No.: SKW.013.1860

Approximate Measurements:
BODICE
Shoulders: 18"
Chest: 33.5"
Waist: 25.5"
Length (underarm to hem): 8"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 30"

SKIRT
Length: 42.5"
Width: 131"

Property of Mary D. Doering, Falls Church, Virginia

Condition:

The overall condition is good with the following:
Structural Issues: There are old stitch lines along the top of the undone skirt waistband.
Split/Separated Seams: The bottom seam of the skirt pocket is starting to come undone.
Losses: Waistband of the skirt is missing.
Fading/Color Change: The side seams of the skirt have some moderate fading .
Soiling/Spots: There is some overall soiling throughout the lining of the bodice primarily at the shoulders, neckline, and underarms. The front and back skirt also has some soiling down from the waistband.
Repairs/Alterations: The skirt has been completely undone at the waist but remains stitched along the major seams and includes a pocket.

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 [email protected] 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.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

Luxe Holiday: A Collectors' Collection

Silk Moiré Taffeta Bodice and Skirt, 1860s

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup