Floral Silk Jacquard Dress, 1860s

This dress comes from the Tasha Tudor Collection of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Tasha Tudor (née Starling Burgess, 1915-2008) was a writer and illustrator of children’s books, including Mother Goose and Corgiville Fair. The idyllic, 19th century world she painted in her books was the lifestyle she pursued: for much of her adult life Tudor lived on New England farms, weaving, tending to animals, baking bread, and collecting, mending, and wearing centuries-old clothing.

For detailed biography, see Jeanette Chandler Knazek, “Tasha Tudor,” Tashatudorandfamily.com.

Dark blue and black silk jacquard brocade with floral motif, jewel neckline with dropped shoulders that have long full sleeves trimmed in blue and black chenille and silk chain fringe, a full skirt gathered into the waist, and center front button closure with chainstitched covered buttons.
Unlabeled
Size Label: N/A
Accession No.: 1998-237

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 17.5"
Chest: 37"
Waist: 27"
Hips: 50"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 55.5"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 29"

Deaccessioned by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Proceeds to Benefit the Acquisition Fund

Condition:

The overall condition is very good with the following:
Split/Separated Seams: The left sleeve elbow tacks have come loose.
Losses: The second button from the top has come detached but is kept with the garment. The braided hem tape has been worn through in numerous areas along the hemline.
Soiling/Spots: There is some minor soiling under the arms in the lining. There is a faint light spot on the front right bodice at chest level. There is a light spot on the back right skirt near the hemline.
Repairs/Alterations: The back side seams on the bodice have been let out. The top left shoulder has a repair made at the sleeve cap.

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.

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Floral Silk Jacquard Dress, 1860s

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