Pelerine

Original OwnerProbably originally owned by Ann Frances Darling (American, born 1811)

Dateabout 1830-1835

MediumHand-stitched cotton

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width): 25 1/2 x 33in. (64.8 x 83.8cm)

ClassificationsCostume

Credit LineGift of Mrs. G. W. Blunt White and Mrs. Irving A. Chapman, through the Manuscript Committee of the Connecticut Society of the Colonial Dames of America

Object number1959.30.8

DescriptionWoman's pelerine with long tabs hanging on either side of the center front opening, meant to be tucked into the belt. (This form is called a "canezou" in period literature.) The shoulderline of the pelerine is extra wide for being laid over the fashionable leg-o'-mutton sleeves. The shoulder is split into two wings. A narrow, embroidered flounce is stitched around the shoulders, and an eight-inch-wide collar encircles the neckline. All edges are scalloped and embroidered with delicate whitework flowers. The neckline edge is piped. The center back of the pelerine extends down to the fashionable waistline and is gathered into a short tab for tucking into the belt.

Label TextA popular fashion of the 1830s and 1840s, pelerines are separate wide, cape-like collars, often made of fabric corresponding to the dress fabric, or of white cotton usually decorated with embroidery. These collars sometimes had long extensions, called lappets, which hung down the front and were placed under a belt. This particular type of pelerine is sometimes referred to as a fichu pelerine. While pelerines could be used for modesty or warmth, their primary purpose appears to be as a decorative accessory.

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