Polonaise
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Mary A. Pratt
American, 1844 - 1930
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1868
MediumMachine-stitched and hand-stitched starched cotton (book muslin)
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (center back length x width across shoulders): 53 x 16 1/4in. (134.6 x 41.3cm)
Hem (circumference): 155in. (393.7cm)
Hem (circumference): 155in. (393.7cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of the estate of Mary P. Lewis
DescriptionWoman's overdress or polonaise of sheer, white book muslin, with a high, round neckline and dropped shoulder. The polonaise opens at center front (there are no closing mechanisms--a brooch probably held it closed at the throat); six self-fabric bows decorate the left edge of the opening. Two self-fabric ruffles are stitched at the waistline on the right and left sides of the bodice front; they continue over the shoulders and down to the center back waistline. Two separate ruffle-trimmed tails extend from this point, with a large self-fabric bow mounted at the juncture of the tails and the bodice ruffles. The sleeves are long, with bell-shaped wrist openings, trimmed with two rows of self-fabric ruffles. The bottom of the polonaise is trimmed with three rows of ruffles. The polonaise is unlined. The neckline edge and armscye seams are piped. One narrow silk tie inside the back of the waist remains of a pair; these would have tied around the waist to keep the back of the dress smooth against the body.
Object number1960.38.1
NotesHistorical Note: This polonaise was worn by Mary A. Pratt Lewis (wife of Dr. George F. Lewis) of Collinsville, Connecticut, at the marriage of Dora B. Kasson and Jasper H. Bidwell in Canton, Connecticut, on 27 December 1868.Subject Terms
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