Condition:
THE FIRST
The overall condition is fair with the following:
Structural Issues: There are several small splits in the taffeta throughout both the bodice and skirt, mostly around major stress areas. The skirt has no closures or real shape.
Losses: The skirt has no lining or other original finishing.
Fading/Color Change: There are some variations in the color of the taffeta.
Soiling/Spots: The interior of the bodice is moderately soiled throughout, but mainly under the arms and waist.
Repairs/Alterations: The bodice has signs of alterations along the neckline, the sleeves at the cuffs, and the front opening. The skirt is essentially a shell that has no real shape at the waist (photographed in an approximate facsimile). The interior seams aren't finished and the pattern pieces are crudely cut and restitched back together.
THE SECOND
The overall condition is good structurally with the following:
Structural Issues: The internal silk lining the puff of the sleeves has shattered.
Split/Separated Seams: The velvet waistband on the bodice has some popped stitches at the back opening.
Fading/Color Change: The lace on the bodice has yellowed throughout.
Soiling/Spots: the bodice interior cotton lining is moderately soiled with spots along the waist and into the sleeves.
Repairs/Alterations: The back bodice closures have been altered, where buttons once were placed are now hooks and eyes, the inset back panel closures have been moved and appear to be a later addition, and the waistband closures no longer match up. The skirt has been heavily altered and appears to have been a much larger skirt from an earlier time frame. This is most noticeable along the back hemline as there are darkened lines that suggest previous folds or pleats. The interior is no longer lined and the seam allowances are irregular and unfinished. There is an extension panel at the back closure along with elastic at the waistband.
THE THIRD
The overall condition is good with the following:
Split/Separated Seams: There are a few popped stitches in the upper bodice where the lace and cotton pieces are connected, mainly on the right near the sleeve, back right shoulder blade, and back left rib cage level. The back right waist has a 2" separation near the closure. The lace at the sleeve cuffs and throughout the skirt has some small holes and broken threads, mostly where attached to the cotton fabric.
Losses: There are two small holes in the bottom tier of the skirt, one in front and one in the back.
Fading/Color Change: The dress has slightly yellowed from age.
Soiling/Spots: There are some small dark spots located on the side right hip.
THE FOURTH
The overall condition is very good with the following:
Structural Issues: There are some loose threads along the shoulders and back waist of the lace.
Soiling/Spots: There is some minor soiling under each arm in the lace and lining.
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 couturecr@hindmanauctions.com 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.
