Breeches
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Colonel Samuel Talcott
(American, 1733 - 1797)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1780-1790
MediumHand-stitched linen, with self-covered wooden (probably) buttons, with glass and metal buckles (possibly silver)
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length along side x width across waist): 25 1/4 x 16 1/4in. (64.1 x 41.3cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Joseph T. Hall
Object number1962.43.7
DescriptionMan's breeches of white linen with twill-woven stripe. The pockets are covered with L-shaped flaps whic button at the hips. The fall is seven inches across the center front and buttons at the corners. Underneath the fall, the waistband, which is five inches wide at the center front, fastens with three one-inch-diameter self-covered buttons. (Large buttons were very fashionable in the 1780s.) The breeches are smooth across the front, and gathered into the waistband across the back. The waistband in the back is made of coarse, plain-woven linen. The waistband and center back seam are open for five inches. Eyelets worked in the waistband would accommodate a lacing to adjust the fit. The legs are splayed. They are open along the outside seam for about 7 1/2 inches; this opening fastens with four self-covered buttons (5/8-inch diameter). The knee bands are currently fastened with elegant paste and silver buckles, which are eighteenth century, but are not original to the breeches. The seams of the breeches are covered by strips of fine linen. The waistband and leg openings and pockets are lined with coarse, plain linen.
Status
Not on view
