Stays
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1765-1775
MediumHand-stitched linen and leather, with wood splint boning
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width across top edge): 18 1/2 x 36in. (47 x 91.4cm)
Other (center back length): 15in. (38.1cm)
Other (center front length): 13 7/8in. (35.2cm)
Other (center back length): 15in. (38.1cm)
Other (center front length): 13 7/8in. (35.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineConnecticut Museum of Culture and History collection
DescriptionTan linen stays, lined with tow. The top and bottom edges are bound with white leather. The center front panel has a rounded dip at the bottom which is about five inches across. The sides of this panel flare to the top, which is 10 1/2 inches across. The stays are constructed of twelve separate panels, which are whipstitched together. Each panel is stitched in rows to create casings for the boning. The bottom edge of the stays is tabbed. The corset closes at center back with a spiral lacing (the eyelets are not reinforced with a leather strip). The center front panel is stiffened with a shield-shaped board, created by gluing about ten layers of fabric together, making it very stiff and thick. A 2 3/4-inch-wide strip of tow fabric is stitched just above the waistline tabs.
Object number1995.181.0
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