Dress
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Charlotte Perkins
American, 1790 - 1873
DressmakerMade by
Unknown
Date1805-1810
MediumHand-stitched cotton muslin
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (width at waist x length): 16 1/2 x 52in. (41.9 x 132.1cm)
Hem (circumference): 67in. (170.2cm)
Hem (circumference): 67in. (170.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred H. Terry
DescriptionWoman's dress of sheer, white muslin embroidered with white cotton dots throughout and stylized floral garlands and sprays around the hem. The dress is styled with a very high waistline (1 3/8 inches below the armhole), a wide square neckline, and short, slightly puffed sleeves. The dress is entirely unlined. (A separate, reproduction pink underdress currently lines the dress). The closure is at center back, with a drawstring at the neckline and waistline. The skirt is flat in front and gathered in back. The sleeves are set into the armhole smoothly in front and slightly gathered in the back. The back dress bodice is narrow--about 6 1/2 inches from armscye seam to armscye seam. The fit of the top edge of the bodice front is controlled by a drawstring.
Object number1959.11.2
NotesHistorical Note: Miss Charlotte Perkins (1790-1873), daughter of Enoch and Anna Pitkin Perkins, may have worn this dress to the Hartford Dancing Assemblies in 1805.Subject Terms
Collections
- Connecticut Needlework: Women, Art, and Family, 1740-1840
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