Woman's Stays

Currently not on view

Woman's Stays

c. 1725-1750

Artist/maker unknown, American or English

While stays were a functional undergarment, they could also be decorative and were sometimes made to be seen. The rows of mock lacing on this example might have been visible in the V neckline of a flowing gown. Another interesting-albeit hidden-element is the lining made from two types of blue-checked linen.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Woman's Stays

Date:

c. 1725-1750

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, American or English

Medium:

Glazed wool twill, buckram, linen thread, baleen, leather, linen tape, two-ply linen cord wrapped in silk, checked linen plain weave lining

Dimensions:

Center Front Length: 15 1/4 inches (38.7 cm) Waist: 26 inches (66 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Mrs. William D. Frishmuth, 1903

Accession Number:

1903-136

Geography:

Probably made in England, Europe Probably made in United States, North and Central America

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Currently not on view