Note Type
Curatorial RemarksNote
Material is probably a Spitalfields silk c. 1740s. Cut of the back of the gown is similar to an 18th-century sack/robe a la francaise. Was this originally a 1740s dress? Original cataloging suggested robe has been reworked "probably from 1740s dress": "skirt was formerly attached to bodice in 1 1/2" knife pleats which are still impressed in fabric. Impressed pleats also appear at sleeves." But the original cataloging also mis-identified the visible brown striped selvage as other strip of "printed fabric" applied to the dress.
Original cataloging also suggests that the two embroidered eyelets at back were for, "at one time, tapes held within inner plaid ribbon may have emerged to be pulled and tied. Inside waist has two modern cream silk ties, which when drawn, cause the shoulder pleats to fall into the sack-back line. Bottom front hem has impressed creases suggesting original hem has been let out, possibly several times, and additional fabric sewn in."
Men's banyans rarely have the box pleats at center back top, their presence here may be evidence this garment was remodeled from an earlier gown. Alterations have been made, although possibly not to the length, more so to the waist and back with the eyelets and waist seam. Both synthetic ribbons and one lace cuff (clearly late 19th century) were removed in 2013 [Jessa J. Krick, 12/9/2013].Note Type
General NoteNote
Diameter is of inside of skirt and width is of armspan.Note Type
StorageNoteNote
Home Location: Historic Hudson Valley, Union Church, Storage, Shelf 02C