Breeches
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Colonel Samuel Talcott
(American, 1733 - 1797)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1770-1780
MediumHand-stitched cotton/linen and linen, with self-covered wooden (probably) buttons, and replacement tagua nut buttons
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length along side x width across waist): 24 x 17in. (61 x 43.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Joseph T. Hall
Object number1962.43.6
DescriptionMan's breeches of brown twill-woven cotton/linen ("fustian"), with a slightly fuzzy surface. The pockets are covered with L-shaped flaps that fasten with self-covered buttons at the hips. The fall is nine inches across the center front and buttons at the corners. Underneath the fall, the breeches' waistband, which is 3 3/4 inches wide, fastens with three self-covered buttons. The breeches are smooth in front and gathered slightly in the back. The waistband and center back seam are open for 5 1/2 inches; worked eyelets in the waistband accommodate a lacing to adjust the fit. The breeches are cut with splayed legs. The sides of the legs are open for about 6 1/2 inches along the side above the knee. This opening is fastened with four self-covered buttons (1/2-inch diameter). The knee strap currently fastens with a 19th-century dyed tagua nut button. A rounded extension under the knee band prevents chafing at the fastening. This area is lined with plain linen, as is the waistband and the fall. The buttonholes are worked with mohair thread, as is typical of the period.
NotesStatus
Not on view
