Images(3)

Black Bodice

Manufacturer James Spence & Co (Dundee, Scotland)

Date1884 - 1888

Object NameBodice

Mediumvelvet, silk and beads

ClassificationsFashion and Dress

DimensionsLength: 41cm
Collar Depth: 4cm
Insdie Sleeve: 41cm

AcquisitionThe Peggy Walker Gift.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS006450

Keywords

About MeBlue/black silk velvet bodice with a pointed waistline and large blue/black velvet leg o'mutton sleeves and black corded silk body decorated with a floral design in cord, filled in with black bugle beads.

The sumptuous velvet used for the sleeves of this bodice is perfectly teamed with the exquisite bead decoration. Although heavily embellished, this bodice would have been worn during the day rather than in the evening, with a long skirt, probably also made from the same velvet as the sleeves.

The oversized puffed sleeves were designed to exaggerate the shoulder width creating the illusion that the waistline was smaller than it actually was. Sleeves became so wide that it was physically impossible to insert them into an outer garment, so waist length cloaks or wraps were worn.