Back lacing corset from England
Object No. A8211-33
Corset, part of collection, sateen / linen / metal, maker unknown, England, c. 1750
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Summary
Physical Description
Corset, sateen / linen / metal, England, c.1750. Back lacing corset of sateen and linen, fully boned with longer straight bodied front, straight cut at top without shoulder straps. The front section of sateen (now grey) cut from under scallop for arms and sloping to centre front, straight cut at base. Fully boned between multiple layers of buckram linen with horizontal bone around the top front. Bones anchored by rows of parallel stitching. Centre front seam with binding (now deteriorated). A series of yarn loops runs down both sides of front to base (possibly for attaching a stomacher). Linen back and sides cut in two sections, seam binding now deteriorated. Bones held by rows of parallel stitching, in the side section running toward the front and straight at back. Ten bound eyelets down one side of centre back to just below the waist. The other side now missing and opening stitched together. High back straight cut across top and trimmed with leather (now worn white) with vandyked edge, extending from side front around to back. Lower edge tabbed below waist and bound with leather (surface also deteriorated). Linen lining, single front piece and side sections, probably replacement. Tabbed area and eyelet side lined with finer fabric. Relining represents many repairs and additional materials. Corset mounted on wire frame.
DIMENSIONS
Width
660 mm
PRODUCTION
Notes
This corset is anomalous in that it has no shoulder straps. It is possible that stomacher of this corset was joined at a later date to make a simpler back fastening.
HISTORY
Notes
The corset probably began life as a high quality garment, possibly for formal dress. It is likely that it was much worn and passed on either into lesser service as a second best or onto servants or other persons. The relining of the garment is a good indication of its heavy use and what remains may be its second or third lining.
SOURCE
Acquisition Date
4 May 1982
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