Infant's Shirt
Clothing MakerMade by
Julia Hebard
(American, 1827-1907)
Date1854
MediumHand-stitched linen and bobbin lace
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width): 8 1/2 x 15 1/2in. (21.6 x 39.4cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Agnes T. Allen
Object number1962.30.24
DescriptionInfant's shirt of white linen, constructed of a long rectangle of fabric, folded with the narrow ends to the center back to create the opening. The side folds are slashed to insert the short sleeves, which consist of sheer fabric ruffles edged with bobbin lace. The shoulder seams are faggoted. The top edge of the shirt is slashed on a diagonal, creating flaps at front and back which fold down over the baby band. These flaps are rounded. The inside shoulder folds back, creating a winged effect on top of the shoulder; this edge is trimmed with bobbin lace like the sleeves. A wide, square neckline is created when all the flaps are folded into position.
NotesHistorical Note: Julia Hebard Goldthwaite made this shirt for her children, and they were baptised in it. Julia Hebard Goldthwaite had seven children, four of whom died before they were two, and one of whom died on her thirteenth birthday.Status
Not on view
