Riding Bodice
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Harriet E. Saxton
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1831
MediumHand-stitched cellulosic fiber (possibly jute, as identified by microscopic analysis at the URI textile lab), silk, and cotton, with ferrous metal hooks and eyes
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (center back length x width across shoulders): 19 1/2 x 14 1/2in. (49.5 x 36.8cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Winthrop A. Haviland
DescriptionWoman's vest for riding, made of grayish-beige, plain-woven cloth. The collar mimics fashionable menswear, in that it is heavily pad-stitched to make it stand up and roll over like a high shawl collar. The waist is slightly high, measuring six inches at the side seams. The front is fitted with a seven-inch-long dart on each side of the center front opening, which fastens with hooks and eyes. The back is cut with curved side-back seams only. A 4 3/4-inch-long tail is stitched across the bottom of the vest in back. It is stitched flat across the center back, and layered with knife pleats at the intersection with the side back seams. The pleats are tacked together to remain straight and smooth. The top edge of the tail is cut on a curve along the outer edges and sewn flat to the bottom of the vest. This causes the outer part of the tail to be sewn on the bias, which makes the tail flare slightly to fit over a full skirt. The vest is lined with plain cotton. The tails are lined with black silk sarsnet in the center and dark brown cotton on the sides.
Object number1983.8.10
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