1650 - 1840's
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[ORDER ITEM - #6669]
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# 6669 -  c. mid 19th Century Brown Silk Padded Bonnet!  The classic padded bonnet from the mid-19th Century era.  EXCELLENT CONDITION with lovely light yellow interior.  The only thing wrong really are the chin ties, but this is the besst condition you will likely see for a padded bonnet!!!  See all photos.  

$ 385.   ORDER 


[ORDER ITEM - #11385]
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# 11385 - RARE c. 1837 Gown (as dated by Nancy Rexford, costume historian and author) Museum Deaccessioned Ivory Silk Satin Embroidered Floral Gown!  From the Wadsworth Athneneum's Costume and Textile collection... this gown has been in a personal collection for about 30 years. She was carefully stored and treated like a member of the family.... but it's now time for her to go to a new home.  I have been in this business for well over 25 years myself, and it's rare now that a gown takes my breath away when I see it.  This is one of those.  It's perfection.  Simple shape, off the shoulder wide "v" neckline, "v" waist at front, cap sleeves with matching "v" shape and simple ecru netting lace, beautiful seaming, gorgeous ivory silk satin.  OK.. so that would be a nice c. late 1830's-early 1840's dress... but then....  (drum roll)... you have the entire dress covered with embroidered multicolored flowers on vines.  Achingly beautiful in person.  The photos hardly do it justice.  Sadly, I couldn't close it on my smallest dressform (it measures 30" bust, 22" waist), but you'd want a smaller dressform as the off-the-shoulder shape shouldn't be stressed.  The material is perfectly strong and nearly like new (even the underarms are clean!!!) with the few exceptions of the minor spots that blend in with the design (but look at the close up photos to see the ones at upper bust and one a side front waist that are the worst... and not all that bad... and one has to assume these were from the original woman wearing flowers as was done, so the spots are historic) and one tiny break in the netting on one sleeve (see photo).  All other issues are so minor as not to mention.  Might want a couple more petticoats under for proper shape if you display.  What more can I say?????   I adore it!   Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

SPECIAL SALE PRICE!  $4,750. (was $7,500) 
ORDER  

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD
# 11481 -  c. early 19th Century Black Woven Jacquard Silk Possible Mourning Maternity Gown!  This dress pretty much stumps me.  It seems to have elements of design from a few decades of the 19th Century, but the long thin sleeves and the under lining of the bust makes me lean toward 1815. The design of the black on black jacquard silk also seems to be of the era. And yet, the seaming of the back bodice isn't what is often seen.  So... I'm thinking it's an interesting mourning black maternity gown.  Just my theory.  You may have your own theory.  I try to take enough photos for you to see what you need to!   This gown has had early renovations as you can see a difference in the fabric design at the hemline, and likely had a matching panel inserted or revamped.  There are a few issues... a tearing at the hemline and a thinning in other hem areas (see photos).  An issue on one sleeve (see photo).  Email me with your thoughts on this gown!  I'm so curious!!!  antiquedress@yahoo.com  Measures:  up to 35" bust, up to 30 waist, 57" long from shoulder to hem.

$ 425.   SOLD 


[ORDER ITEM - #11386]
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# 11386 - RARE c. early 1840's Gown (as dated by Nancy Rexford, costume historian and author) Museum Deaccessioned Gold Jacquard Silk Embroidered Floral Gown!  Complete with Original and Separate Long Under Sleeves!!  From the Wadsworth Athneneum's Costume and Textile collection... this gown has been in a personal collection for about 30 years. She was carefully stored and treated like a member of the family.... but it's now time for her to go to a new home.  I have been in this business for well over 25 years myself, and it's rare now that a gown takes my breath away when I see it.  This gown (and the other gown from the same collection) are just EXTRAORDINARY!  Sadly, the photos don't do it justice.  PLEASE look at the close-up photos to see the exquisite detail of the jacquard and embroidered silk fabric.  These were, without a doubt, the finest fabrics of the time.  I would have to assume they were of French origin.  The gowns were possibly made in America of the imported fabric.  Sheer perfection.  Simple shape, off the shoulder wide "v" neckline, "v" waist at front, cap sleeves with detailing and spiderweb lace, beautiful seaming, and with the original long under sleeves to be worn with and without. The material is perfectly strong and nearly like new (even the underarms are clean!!!) with the few exceptions of the extreme minor spots that blend in with the design (hardly worth mentioning at all.... and breaks in the spider lace on the sleeves.  Might want a couple more petticoats under for proper shape if you display.  What more can I say?????   I adore it!  Just slightly smaller than this dressform, so the hook at the waist isn't hooked (didn't want to stress the fabric), yet the waistband inside did fasten.   Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

SPECIAL SALE PRICE!  $4,750. (was $7,500) 
ORDER 

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD on LAYAWAY
# 4163 - c. 1840's Champagne Colored Brocade Gown with Additional Original Sleeves! Doris Langley Moore Connection!   In remarkable condition!!!!! There were two museum experts who agreed that this exquisite multicolored floral brocade on moire champagne colored silk faille fabric that makes up this gown was older than the gown and possibly from the mid-1700's.  However, I recently found a tiny little tag that was attached with a safety pin inside the gown that reads:  "64 c. 1840  Brocade dress with sleeve ends.  Interesting imitation of an 18th century style of fabric.  DLM  Letter 1-15-68".   What does this mean, you ask?  Well... this dress was either part of the Doris Langley Moore collection, or was at the very least inspected and reviewed by Ms. Moore back in 1968.  Now if you happen not to know who Doris Langley Moore is, she founded the Fashion Museum in Bath, England in 1963 and was one of the first major fashion historians.  You can read all about her on Wikipedia at:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doris_Langley_Moore .   So the modern experts say one thing, but Doris Langley Moore says something else.  So Doris Langley Moore says the fabric is from the 1840's,  but that also means it's an historically fascinating revival of the 1700's fabric design in the 1840's.  However, if Doris Langley Moore was wrong and the two modern experts are right, then this fabric IS from the mid 1700's and used for the creation of this dress in 1840's.  Either way, it's an historic fabric and gown which comes with additional original matching sleeves worn for day wear and absoluetly from the 1840's! Gown is fully "lined".  Looks like it was barely worn! Other than a few light age stains here and there, there is only one spot worth mentioning just below bodice center point, otherwise it's in Excellent condition! Best you will find from this era! One side of the back seems ever so slightly varied color from the other side of the back... it's an extremely picky thing to point out to you... but hey... it's my job! Measures: 32" bust, 25/26" waist, 42" long from waist to hem.  

$ 3,495.  SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 2
(check measurements above)
 


[ORDER ITEM - #11310]
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# 11310 -  c. 1820 REPRO Regency Striped Gown!  Please take note... I rarely sell items that aren't original.  And I have to say this dress stumps me.  Could have been a costume gown.  Could have been a student project.  I just don't know.  There is much hand-stitching, but it's pretty messy (usually the original hand stitched gowns are meticulously stitched)... and there is some machine stitching which may have been when the gown was renovated (as you can see at the back... sloppily enlarged at the back waist with a ribbon).  The material is interesting... fairly sheer woven ombre stripes... but the material seems to be rayon.... certainly doesn't seem to be the fine silks or muslins you'd expect to find from this era.  The neckline is also a bit strange shaped for the era.    So.... if you are looking for a antique looking gown, this is for you!  Great for stage!!!  I stuffed the puff sleeves for the photos.  You'll need to wear a slip under.  And there are a few pulls in the material (see photo of mid bust) and a couple small (what look like) paint (?) spots at front (see photos).  Measures:  33/34" bust, 27" waist (as is enlarged), 12" from shoulder to empire waist, 54" long from shoulder to hem.       Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

$ 185. ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 4
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM - #6953]
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# 6953 - RARE c. 18th Century Alsace or German Lavish Gold Metallic Embroidered Child's Cap or Bonnet!  Museum Deaccession!   Items like this extraordinary, intricately embroidered cap (or bonnet) are rarely seen outside of museums!   From my research, these were actually referred to as "gold caps", and this type of headwear was common in Germany and surrounds. This ornately decorated cap is embroidered in gold foil, metallic thread, cord, sequins, teeny seed beads, surprising blue glass jewels, etc. creating an overall gold appearance. This example would have been considerably time-consuming, and for it to have been created for a CHILD (it is child sized), this would have to have been quite a wealthy family.  The front is edged in gold metallic bobbin lace.  The cap has been professionally re-lined in fine linen by the museum.  As I'm not a scholar, if anyone out there has more info on these gold caps, I would love to know more!  In Near Mint condition.. especially for something this intricate and of this age!!    Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

$ 2,850. ORDER

ITEMS BELOW ARE SOLD

    ITEMS BELOW ARE SOLD


SOLD 
# 6818 - RARE c. 1840 Gold Bullion and Sequin Cap!  Be still my heart.  This would have been one damn wealthy woman to afford something so intricately detailed of gold bullion and gown sequins and gold metallic lace front!  I really don't have much more information on this other than you looking at the photos.   In excellent condition with just a bit of lace missing only on the inside.  Exterior is near mint!  Shown on a normal sized head.  Even looks like the in vogue "banana curls" at the back.  KILLER piece!!   Also Listed in the Museum and Hats Categories. 

$ 2,250.   SOLD
 

SOLD 
# 4287 - RARE c. 1830's/1840's Men's Ivory Jacquard Silk Stock Collar!  You certainly don't see these often for sale!  From the 19th Century.... you know.... think top hats and muttonchops!  The standard neckwear for men of the era. A shaped band fastened at the back of the neck with ties, a buckle or hook and eye... this one has a large metal buckle.  This type of neckcloth was introduced to general society by King George IV in 1822.  The Whole Art of Dress, an 1830 guide to men’s fashion, described The Royal George style of stock as being composed of “the richest black Genoa velvet and satin” and tied into a small gordian knot with short broad ends.  And white was the obligatory color for all evening dress neckwear during this time with the notable exception of George IV’s reign when his penchant for black took precedent. These were worn over the high stand collar of the shirt. Call it a cravat, neckscarf, or stock collar.  So.....  this one shows it's age... it's all frayed at the edges and has quite a bit of staining (see all the photos).  Use as a pattern.  Still rare!!! 

SOLD 


SOLD 
# 1217 - RARE c. 1800 Champagne Colored Silk Dress Top or Spenser with Tiny Sweet Details!  I haven't really been able to figure out this piece, but it's an historic wonder!  A GORGEOUS color champagne silk with the sweetest tiny details including tiny all hand stitched tucks at mid back, the mini ruffles at the arm seams and larger ruffles at slightly puffed upper sleeves to the tight lower sleeves with a slight bell shape at the cuff.  The long sleeves are basted on the puffed sleeves so they could easily have been added and subtracted as the owner wanted.  No closures at front, just pinned shut.  So you'd assume this was a spenser, but as you can see, there is a natural colored linen lining which is longer than the silk all around, and it has a corset closure  at the front (I just used a bright pink ribbon so you can see it... obviously this would have been a thin matching cord originally). If you look closely, you will see that there seems to be a tiny channel at the front where a thin string was pulled and gathered, and there are stitching marks at the back along this same line... so may have had some ribbon or something around the back there? Or was there an empire waisted skirt attached to this piece?  Or was it some like of jumper dress worn over?  I'm sure there are those of you out there who know exactly how this was used and worn.  So please let me know!  Meanwhile, I'm just selling as an exquisite antique "spenser" top.  Excellent, near mint condition!!!!!!! NOTE:  the dress does NOT come with this!!!! 

$ 985.  
SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)

FROM MUSEUM QUALITY ESTATE

SOLD ON LAYAWAY 
# 5091 - RARE c. mid 1700's or mid-18th Century Shoes! Watered Silk Faille Light Tan Fabric!  PLEASE NOTE: the Buckles are for Show only.   I'm showing these early shoes with buckles (that aren't of the correct era, but somewhat of the right look) just to give you an idea of what they would have looked like when worn.  The rest of the photos show the shoes as they are.  The watered silk faille is all trimmed in a matching silk braid.  Hard to describe the condition.  For the age they are Excellent, with just extremely minor issues of wear - mostly at the edges.  The photos will really describe the condition better than words. There are pinholes on the tabs where the buckles would have been attached over the years. They are 99% intact..... and structurally very sound! Interior sole is brown leather in fabulous condition. Bottom leather sole is mostly sueded now having lost the top layer, but still in great condition.  An amazingly early pair of shoes not often found on the open market!  Measure: 3" wide x 9" long  Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

$ 3,450.  SOLD ON LAYAWAY 

 


SOLD
# 11661 -  c. Mid-1800's (mid 19th Century) VIAULT-ESTE, Paris, No. 17 Rue de la Paix, and THIERRY & SONS, Regent Street, 278, London Ivory Silk Wedding or Dancing Slippers (or Shoes)!  Well, well, well... guess who else had shoes with this label??  Empress Eugenie.. you know, the wife of Napoleon III.  There is a museum collection of 6 pairs of shoes dating from the 1860s-1870s which she brought to England after her exile from France.  If you search for similar slippers (shoes) you will see they are dated anywhere from 1830s-1860s, but since these shoes have STRAIGHT lasts, they are likely dated prior to 1850.  Strangely, it wasn't until 1818 that the right and left shoe was invented! :)   These shoes are unworn!  Excellent condition with the rare original ultra thin ties (they would have been tied around the ankle)... so often these shoes are found with the thin ribbons gone. Tiny little bow at the front.  As is normal, these shoes will need to be stuffed to display, otherwise they collapse to nearly flat (see photo)... and that is normal.   Excellent condition!!   Also listed in various other sections.

$ 825.   SOLD


 SOLD
# 11485 -  c. 1810-1815 AMERICAN Men's Linen Wedding Vest from the Historic BRINCKERHOFF ESTATE MANSION (Fishkill, NY)!   JORIS DERICKSEN BRINCKERHOFF, the ancestor of the Brinckerhoff family in America, was likely born as in the county of Dreuthe, Holland, in 1609. He married Susannah Dubbels, and in 1638 came to America, settling in New Amsterdam. He intended to settle on Staten Island and did purchase land there, but one day going to look the property over with his sons, one of the sons was shot by the Indians, and this caused him to give up the project, and he went back to New Amsterdam. From there the family seems to have gone to Flushing, and the Fishkill ancestors are part of that family branch.  I've tried to research the family online for you, but I will leave the rest of this to you!   These items came directly from the on-site auction of the Brinckerhoff mansion!   The condition is Very Good (there are some light stains here and there - see photos and one back tie missing) but at 200 years old... this is in remarkable condition!  Classic shape with high neck, mostly squared bottom, smalll self-covered buttons, 2 ties at back, 2 pockets.   May have been worn as a wedding vest, as it was part of a "lot" that included the dress, mitts, lace shawl and lace veil.  Additional items from this estate are a calash and young girl's Regency dress.  Measures:  34" chest, 17" long.  Hand-stitched. 

$ 465.    SOLD 

 


SOLD  
# 11482 - RARE c. 1810-1815 AMERICAN Tambour Lace Net Shawl with Scalloped Edge from the Historic BRINCKERHOFF ESTATE MANSION (Fishkill, NY)!   JORIS DERICKSEN BRINCKERHOFF, the ancestor of the Brinckerhoff family in America, was likely born as in the county of Dreuthe, Holland, in 1609. He married Susannah Dubbels, and in 1638 came to America, settling in New Amsterdam. He intended to settle on Staten Island and did purchase land there, but one day going to look the property over with his sons, one of the sons was shot by the Indians, and this caused him to give up the project, and he went back to New Amsterdam. From there the family seems to have gone to Flushing, and the Fishkill ancestors are part of that family branch.  I've tried to research the family online for you, but I will leave the rest of this to you!   These items came directly from the on-site auction of the Brinckerhoff mansion!    This all lace net shawl is 100" long x 20" wide with scalloped edges... and is EXQUISITE!  The tambour embroidery is all over the shawl.   The condition is Excellent (there are two couple minor holes - see photo - and a few tiny leg breaks and a few extreme minor old repairs) but at 200 years old... this is in remarkable condition!   May have been worn as a wedding shawl, as it was part of a "lot" that included the dress, mitts, veil, and man's vest.  Additional items from this estate are a calash and young girl's Regency dress.

$ 1,195.   SOLD  


SOLD
# 11483 - RARE c. 1810-1815 AMERICAN Tambour Lace Net Wedding Veil from the Historic BRINCKERHOFF ESTATE MANSION (Fishkill, NY)!   JORIS DERICKSEN BRINCKERHOFF, the ancestor of the Brinckerhoff family in America, was likely born as in the county of Dreuthe, Holland, in 1609. He married Susannah Dubbels, and in 1638 came to America, settling in New Amsterdam. He intended to settle on Staten Island and did purchase land there, but one day going to look the property over with his sons, one of the sons was shot by the Indians, and this caused him to give up the project, and he went back to New Amsterdam. From there the family seems to have gone to Flushing, and the Fishkill ancestors are part of that family branch.  I've tried to research the family online for you, but I will leave the rest of this to you!   These items came directly from the on-site auction of the Brinckerhoff mansion!   This piece is a trapezoid shape with the embroidery at the bottom and the top pulls/gathers however much you want to create the veil.  Measures:  31" long, 39" wide at bottom, 34" wide at top.  There are etchings of the era that show the veil worn in front or at back.  The condition is Very Good (there are some light stains here and there - see photos - and a bit of embroidery missing mostly at edging) but at 200 years old... this is in remarkable condition!   May have been worn as a wedding veil, as it was part of a "lot" that included the dress, mitts, lace shawl and man's vest.  Additional items from this estate are a calash and young girl's Regency dress.  This piece is a more ecru color. 

$ 465.   SOLD

 


SOLD
# 11308A - c. 1840's 2-piece Gown of Blue Silk Jacquard! Once mounted on a dressform, this 2-piece dress is stunning.   It's a thin, soft blue silk jacquard with long "v" boned bodice with low off-the-shoulders neckline, slight bell sleeves, large ruffle tiered skirt, attached wide pleated collar, and hand stitched with piping detail.  I've shown the dress over very full slips (they don't come with it).  Closes at the back with old hooks/eyes.  The skirt waist was a bit too large for the mannequin, so it's a bit over-bunched at the mid-back.   This was perhaps a wedding gown, or certainly a "Sunday Best" gown as the silk is soft and lovely. Love the bit of padding in the bust!  Even back then!! :)   There are a few extremely minor issues:  There is a bit of underarm staining (unseen when worn or displayed), there is one small hole on the collar at front (see photo) perhaps from a worn ornament as it's in a strange place and another similar small hole under the flounce in the skirt (unseen when worn).  There is one very small light blue spot on lower right skirt (hardly worth mentioning), hook/eye missing at skirt back and some extreme minor selvedge seen in the skirt seams (see photos).  Extreme minor pinholes seen in skirt.  Lined in oil cloth bodice, skirt is unlined (though a bit of oilcloth around hemline (just needs a few minor stitches).  A lovely silk gown from an era getting harder to find!  Measures:  30" bust, 22" waist bodice, 25" waist skirt, 40 long skirt in front, 42" long in back.  


$ 945.   SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)


SOLD 
# 11487 -  c. 1810-1815 AMERICAN  Embroidered Muslin Fingerless Mitts from the Historic BRINCKERHOFF ESTATE MANSION (Fishkill, NY)!   JORIS DERICKSEN BRINCKERHOFF, the ancestor of the Brinckerhoff family in America, was likely born as in the county of Dreuthe, Holland, in 1609. He married Susannah Dubbels, and in 1638 came to America, settling in New Amsterdam. He intended to settle on Staten Island and did purchase land there, but one day going to look the property over with his sons, one of the sons was shot by the Indians, and this caused him to give up the project, and he went back to New Amsterdam. From there the family seems to have gone to Flushing, and the Fishkill ancestors are part of that family branch.  I've tried to research the family online for you, but I will leave the rest of this to you!   These items came directly from the on-site auction of the Brinckerhoff mansion!    These are so sweet!  May have been worn during a wedding, as it was part of a "lot" that included the dress, lace shawl, veil, and man's vest.  Additional items from this estate are a calash and young girl's Regency dress.  The condition is Excellent (with just one small old repair - see photo - on one mitt) but at 200 years old... these are in remarkable condition!

$ 235.   SOLD  

 


SOLD 
# 11484 -  c. 1800-1815 AMERICAN  Embroidered Muslin Young Girl's Open Back Dress from the Historic BRINCKERHOFF ESTATE MANSION (Fishkill, NY)!   JORIS DERICKSEN BRINCKERHOFF, the ancestor of the Brinckerhoff family in America, was likely born as in the county of Dreuthe, Holland, in 1609. He married Susannah Dubbels, and in 1638 came to America, settling in New Amsterdam. He intended to settle on Staten Island and did purchase land there, but one day going to look the property over with his sons, one of the sons was shot by the Indians, and this caused him to give up the project, and he went back to New Amsterdam. From there the family seems to have gone to Flushing, and the Fishkill ancestors are part of that family branch.  I've tried to research the family online for you, but I will leave the rest of this to you!   These items came directly from the on-site auction of the Brinckerhoff mansion!   I wish this dress was in my size!!  Though the empire is the highest during this era... not sure I would have looked all that great with my bust. :)   The dress was part of a "lot" that included a "wedding" dress, lace shawl, veil, and man's vest, and calash.  The condition is Excellent (with just two tiny pulls of the muslin - see photo) but at 200 years old... it's NEAR MINT!      The open back of these child's dresses are curious... but it's possible it was worn as you see below with pantaloons under, or just worn with a dress slip under. Measures:  about 27" around empire, 36" long.   WONDERFUL DISPLAY PIECE Or VERY WEARABLE for your REGENCY FLOWER GIRL!!!!!! 

$ 945.   SOLD 

FROM MUSEUM QUALITY ESTATE

SOLD
#5094 - EXTREMELY RARE (outside of the World's Top Museums) c. 1770-1790's (late 18th Century) "Habit a la Francaise" French Frock Coat of Dark Taupe Cut Velvet with Magnificent Polychrome Floral Silk Embroidery... Along with Ivory Silk Embroidered Waistcoat!  From large estate of early Museum Quality clothing comes this extraordinary French highly embroidered velvet frock coat with silk faille embroidered waistcoat under. I still have these pieces displayed on my mannequin as I can't bear to take them away!!  Even better in person... you will just totally lost in the embroidery!!! It's mesmerizing!!!  This would have been a court suit and worn with matching velvet breeches and a lace jabot at neck.  The most intricate polychrome silk embroidery of flowers and leaves and embroidered ivory ovals creating what is meant to look like lace at the edges. Coordinating ivory simple lace at cuffs. The ivory silk faille waistcoat is equally impressive and beautifully embroidered with bright silk in a complementary floral design. I have seen embroidered frock coats and waistcoats for sale on the open market, but never have I seen any more extraordinary!  Most are in the top international museums.  Both pieces in Excellent condition and all original.  There are extreme minor issues... a bit of discoloration under the arm (see photos) and the netting is gone from much of the "lace" embroidery on the frock coat (hardly worth a mention!!!), minor tears in the lining.  The waistcoat is near mint. Simply in RARE FINE CONDITION!    Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

SOLD

FROM MUSEUM QUALITY ESTATE

SOLD
#5092 - RARE c. 1770's Polonaise of Museum Quality Floral and Striped Brocaded Silk Polonaise with Original internal Drawstrings!  From large estate of early Museum Quality clothing... comes this gorgeous open front polonaise gown!  Exquisite embroidered striped silk satin of champagne and coral with green and ivory embroidered flowers and buds all over. Wonderful detailing including self-covered decorative buttons on front bodice, banded slit in the pocket of the skirt to allow for accessing pocket of underskirt, slightly curved sleeves to follow the crook of the arms, original gathered string for the top of the bodice (one side only still exists), fine muslin lining in bodice.  One of the most exciting features is that the interior rope cords and loops are still intact for gathering up the back gown!  See the additional photos showing the gown gathered up at back and down as you see to the left.  I photographed this gown over a simple white petticoat at front and panniers (neither come with the gown).  The condition is REMARKABLE!  Clean underarms, like new! Strong silk fabric with only a bit of edge wear on front of skirt. Only one tiny hole found (only by holding up to light) half the size of eraser head. Otherwise only minor small areas of discolorations (lost in folds).  Simply RARE FINE CONDITION!  Shown on a 30" bust, 23" waist mannequin.   Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

SOLD


SOLD 
# 6607 - c. 1790's Gauze over Cane Bonnet!  I hate selling items that aren't in excellent condition, but what should I expect from a piece that's over 200 years old.  I mean REALLY!!   The shape is confusing me a bit as it's nearly a complete oval, and not sure how it was worn.  Probably missing ties and worn like the calashes from that era.  I really need a fashion history course. Hopefully you are smarter than I am, and this is something you've been waiting to find all these years! It was DATED by a true fashion historian... I'm just a "wannabe". :)    It's an "raisin" color gauze that is looking slightly different on my monitor, but had to lighten a bit to see ALL that detail.   I have closeup photos of the issues.... the gauze is a thin, open fabric and has come away a bit from the cane, and the cane has a few minor breaks.   

SOLD 


SOLD
# 11307 - c. 1815 White "Jane Austen" Cotton Day Dress!  Wearable size!  So rare to find antique clothing larger enough to actually wear if you want to! Though I only suggest you wear any antique garment for a short time and without too much movement.   Anyway, this dress is as simple as you can get.  Would have been her basic day dress and would have likely been worn with a colored Spencer (short jacket) to go "out".  Strong cotton fabric still has the original skinny rope ties at the back (the one at the front is missing on one side). Horizontal pleats at lower skirt.  Extremely high empire waist.  "Stovepipe" sleeves. Tiny tiny hand stitching.   Condition is very good, however there are issues. Dress could use a bath to brighten (I am leaving as found), there are very light age spotting throughout, a few darker age spots have eaten through fabric (only a very few... see photos). Overall... a great simple basic gown that is hard to find from this era at an affordable price and human sized!  Measurements up to 33" bust, up to 47" hips, 52" long from shoulder to hem. 

SOLD

 


SOLD
# 4522 - c. early 1830's Burgundy Wine Silk Bodice or Pelisse with Huge Gigot de Mouton (Leg o' Mutton) Sleeves!  This is one of those antique pieces that you just wish this website had the capability to allow you to feel the incredible softness of this silk!  It's like "butta" (that's New Yorkese for "butter" for those of you who don't know this reference).  Gorgeous burgundy wine silk color.  Beautifully made, all hand stitched Original hooks/eyes at back.  Excellent condition with only one 1" wear at the very bottom edge at back (see photo), and although it's all original, one back panel is ever so slightly darker than the other and with an extra horizontal seam (see photo - hardly worth a mention).  Really this piece is in wonderful condition!  Measures:  30" bust, 27" underbust (fits smaller than measures, and tiny shoulders). Really best for display, though strong enough to be worn! Even the cuffs are large enough to fit over my slightly wide hand.   

$ 845. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 11387 - c. 1853-1855 Gown (as dated by Nancy Rexford, costume historian and author) Museum Deaccessioned Ivory Silk Satin Gown!   From the Wadsworth Athneneum's Costume and Textile collection... this gown has been in a personal collection for about 30 years. She was carefully stored and treated like a member of the family.... but it's now time for her to go to a new home.   This came from the same collection as the two extraordinary jacquard and embroidered gowns below.  This one is quite plain (as you can see), but made of the best, softest ivory silk satin.... I presume French.  The gown would have been worn with embellishments or accessories... perhaps like Queen Victoria's dress below (see bow at neckline and "v" adornment on bodice) or worn with lace collar, or whatever.  Someone wore this with a pin or flower ornament attached at the neckline as there is a small stain there (see photo).  There are a few smaller stains (see photos), but surprisingly in VERY CLEAN, EXCELLENT condition.   There is a lovely watch pocket at the tightly gathered waistline (see photo), and short bell sleeves.   Closes with hooks/eyes at back.  Lovely, simple gown of the era!!!   Don't mind the pin at the back skirt waist... I re-sewed the eye that needed a couple stitches (that's the extent of my sewing skills!!)  Measures: 32" bust, 26" waist, 42" long from waist to hem.... but remember... these are were small boned women with small backs/shoulder width.  Just sayin'.  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.

$ 885.   SOLD
 

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)


SOLD 
# 1170 - RARE c. 1830's RARE 19th Century Black Seed Bead "Riegelhaube" or "Latch Plate Hood"!  Likely Mourning Piece!  Comes with the Original Wallpaper Hatbox Bottom! This "Riegelhaube" or "Latch Plate Hood" was the head coverage for the Bavarian region - centered in and around Munich from 1755 through about 1850.  Originally much larger in the mid-1700's, they developed over 100 years to form the stiff classic shape of this one dating to approximately 1830's.  What was originally a bow on the downfacing side, turned into a stiff symbol of a bow. The Riegelhaube is made of a rigid rag cardboard basis, encrusted over with silver or gold spiral metal embroidery, beading or spangles (sequins).   It's said that silver was for unmarried girls, gold for married, and black for widows/mourning.  I've read that the caps took 200-300 working hours to create, at the price of several monthly wages! To see the Riegelhaube as worn, I found a painting of a Helene Sedlmayr, from 1831. (the painting is not part of this sale!  Geesh!) and an etching from 1813, as well as a few modern photos of women wearing these at back of head. This Riegelhaube comes with the ORIGINAL wallpaper hatbox  bottom.  These were held on the head with silver filigree hat pins around the top edge.  The hat is in good condition, but there are areas of beads missing (see photos)... the back is mostly all intact, but the bead loss is mostly at the sides.  The box bottom is in fair condition, but nice to have.   Also Listed in the Hats Category. 

$ 465.  
SOLD   

 

 

 



ITEM NO LONGER AVAILABLE
#9825 - c. 1830's (perhaps 1837) RARE 19th Century Gold and Silver Embroidered "Riegelhaube" or "Latch Plate Hood" with hand-written German Provenance from an Eleanore Speckner!  Comes with the Original Wallpaper Hatbox AND 8 Silver Filigree Hairpins! AS RARE as they come, this "Riegelhaube" or "Latch Plate Hood" was the head coverage for the Bavarian region - centered in and around Munich from 1755 through about 1850.  Originally much larger in the mid-1700's, they developed over 100 years to form the stiff classic shape of this one dating to approximately 1837.  What was originally a bow on the downfacing side, turned into a stiff symbol of a bow. The Riegelhaube is made of a rigid rag cardboard basis, encrusted over with silver or gold spiral metal embroidery, beading or spangles (sequins).   It's said that silver was for unmarried girls, gold for married, and black for widows/mourning... though no one is sure of that. However it was known that the caps took 200-300 working hours to create, at the price of several monthly wages! To see the Riegelhaube as worn, I found a painting of a Helene Sedlmayr, from 1831. (the painting is not part of this sale!  Geesh!). This Riegelhaube comes with the ORIGINAL green and red wallpaper hatbox and hand-written German note.  AS WELL AS Eight Extraordinary Krausnadel silver filigree hairpins used to hold the schopf (bun) together.  Traditionally only 2-5 pins were allowed used, so there are two sets here... 3 pins in the round pin set, and 5 pins in the floral pin set.  There is a variety to the pins.  And all the flower pins have tremblers!!  

Condition of all elements is Excellent!!

The hatbox the only piece showing wear at edges. The silver pins are tarnished as is the gold embroidered cap, but that is to be expected and I will not clean for those of you who want items this old in pristine "as found" condition.  Also listed in the Hats, etc. Category.

ITEM NO LONGER AVAILABLE


SOLD
# 3453 - RARE c. 1830's/1840's Men's Black Satin Stock Collar!  Museum Quality!  You certainly don't see these often for sale!  From the 19th Century.... you know.... think top hats and muttonchops!  The standard neckwear for men of the era. A shaped band fastened at the back of the neck with ties, a buckle or hook and eye... this one has a large metal buckle.  This type of neckcloth was introduced to general society by King George IV in 1822.  The Whole Art of Dress, an 1830 guide to men’s fashion, described The Royal George style of stock as being composed of “the richest black Genoa velvet and satin” and tied into a small gordian knot with short broad ends.  These were worn over the high stand collar of the shirt. Call it a cravat, neckscarf, or stock collar.  This one is in remarkable condition!!!  As seen in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. 

SOLD


SOLD
# 6756 - RARE c. 16th Century Cut Steel Frame Purse / Replaced with late 1800/early 1900 Ruby Velvet!  Urn shaped purse  hinged at sides.  The sides are unique with piercings that increase from top to bottom.  Scalloped on the front and back.  Chunky chain handle.  Some rust on the frame and the velvet has been sewn on crudely, but MY GOD.... what a unique and OLD piece.  This has been dated for me to the 16th Century!!!   That's back to King Henry VIII era!!!  Or prior to the Pilgrims!!!  Just hard to even fathom that I am holding this in my hands.  Measures:  8" long, 5.5" wide at top and 6.5" wide at bottom.  Chain is nearly 12" long.  This piece is SO OLD, it's EARLIER than my CATEGORY!!!!   ;)   Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

SOLD 

 



SOLD
# 1386 - late 1700's-1800's J.K. Wetherell Maker, 3 Bell Yard, Temple Bar, London James Smith Esquire's Powdered Wig and Original Tin Case and Holder with Name! From Australia/New Zealand! You know, we use the term "museum quality" sometimes too frequently, but in this case there is no question. If you know your history, you know that many hard-core criminals, as well as many unjustly accused poor of English society were shipped off to Australia and New Zealand(New South Wales) in the late 1700's. And where there are criminals... there are lawyers! James Smith was obviously one. You wonder how long he was there...and what possessed him to go.. but he certainly went in style! From his London wigmaker (with his name James Smith hand written inside the cap), a pristine grey wig with tin case (again with his name) and original metal wig stand. Made of Horsehair.  And according to research, it may well be made additionally of silk, linen, human hair and cotton.  See this link:  http://themsv.org/barrister%E2%80%99s-bench-wig  They have dated their JK Wetherell wig to mid 1700's with the aid of America's Colonial Williamsburg.  In my research, I can date the company of JK Wetherell Wig Maker to a Law Times, and Journal of Property, Volume 62 dated 1876.  I do not know how long the company was in existence, so I can't date this wig exactly.  It's old.  And it will come with a COA from Antiquedress.com stating that I purchased it years ago from a New Zealand dealer who stated that it came from a New Zealand estate.    As for James Smith, I have located a NSW James Smith, Lawyer at Mssrs. Smith and Anderson in the 1870s-1880s.  I have no idea if this is the correct James Smith. More research would be necessary... but this is all a start for you!  The wig is in NEAR MINT Condition! Excellent construction. The tin, however, is all scratched up as you can see, and the latch is gone.   But there is still great history on this tin as you can faintly see what seems to be "Naples" paper label... so seems perhaps that this was shipped from England to NSW via Naples, Italy? 

$ 1,885. SOLD


SOLD
#5101 - Dated 1780 (late 18th Century) Baleen Corset Busk! (Whalebone Scrimshaw) OK, it's sort of originally dated... it was re-etched on the back with information about the original artist!  It reads " Made by Jules (Giles?) Bailey Over 125 Years Old ... 1905".  Not sure what the word is between "old" and "1905" but in addition to this inscription, there is an old sticker with a handwritten "1780".   Also... to confirm the "Bailey"... the loving etching on front is for "A*B", so this was likely Mr. Bailey's sweetheart, as this was the fashion of the time... to present one's sweetheart with a hand-carved decorated busk.  Quite intimate a gift when you think that these were worn inside a corset front... and close to her heart! :) This piece is baleen (another word for whalebone) and designed with 3-masted tall ship and smaller schooner, along with many other decorative elements.  As you can see by the photos, there are no cracks in the bone, but there are a few areas of worm damage on the edges and back.  The front remains good, though slightly age worn.  Measures: 13.5" x 1.5". 

$ 785.  SOLD


SOLD
# 11288 - c. 1840 Cotton Print Day Dress!  OK... this dress is slightly confusing due to the interior of the bodice (see last photos).  You can see that someone made this dress and used a brown button front lining.  The buttons were removed and the dress closes with hooks/eyes at front.  The material is classic from the era... though as you will see from the photos, the material has bleeded over the years so there is a reddish hue over much of the fabric.  Though it's still a lovely example of the era and due to the condition issues, it's affordably priced.  The only true damage is an "L" shape tear at front some inches down from gathered waistline (see photos) and an long old mended tear at the hemline (see photos).  Incredibly, this is a human size!!!  Measurements coming.

$ 465. SOLD

 


SOLD

#5104 - c. 1800 RARE Lace Inset Muslin Trained Gown! With Provenence Tag Owned by a Constance W. Jenks!  Sorry I have no information on Ms. Jenks, but still great to have this label sewn in his gown. White lace inset muslin trained gown with train, likely English or French as it came from the same estate as the other trained c. 1800 gown I recently sold.  This gown seems to be more of a day dress so it couldn't be any newer than 1806.  As I read, "Regular wearing of white gowns was a sign of social status as white soiled so easily". Also read that trained gowns pretty much disappeared by 1805/1806.  This gown has quite a few brown stains (see photos) here and there, one L-shaped tear and it has a long straight-line tear up the front (as it's a clear tear, it should be fairly easily restored - see the last photo).  What you see on the side is the design of the gown, it's open most of the way up the side and would have been pinned up at the shoulder.  The interior tiny bust would also likely have been pinned.  Beside the condition issues, it's still in lovely white clean condition.  It's (as usual) impossibly small in the back... just 4" across back between armseams!!  Should be shown on a smaller mannequin, but surprisingly fits on my 32" bust gal! :) 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 81" long in back.  The interior bust and sleeves are lined in a tight woven fairly stiff cotton.  The sleeves have gathered string ties, as does the center bodice. Nice low neckline and rounded train!  As you know, it's rare to find these gowns with trains.  Priced accordingly.  

$ 1,465.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6304 - c. 1840's Magnificent Cut Velvet Ivory Silk Ballgown from the Bramwell Estate of New York!  Simply perfect ivory silk 2-piece off-the-shoulder ballgown bodice with extreme pointed waist and short cap sleeves.  The double tiered skirt is fully gathered.  Then we come to the breathtaking and brilliant cut velvet and silk embroidered wide design at both tiers.  Please take a look at the close-up photos of this trim... it's just awesome, especially in person.  There is one additional layer of plain skirt under the lowest tier to sweep the ground.  Note: the gown is shown over a hoop that is a bit too large for it, so it's pulling it a bit more than it should.  I couldn't find a shop around here selling 1840s hoops... sorry! :)  Condition is remarkable... excellent... strong, clean silk and the trim still has brilliant colors.  The only issues are that all the hooks at the back bodice are missing (easy replacement), and looks like someone tacked up the skirt to make shorter at one point in time so you can see a bit of old tracks (see photos).  Measures: 32" bust, 25" waist, 47" long from waist to hem.

$ 4,250.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#11003 - c. 1830's Golden Sage Green Silk Jacquard Dress!  This is one of those simple, basic antique silk dresses that you just can't believe survived 180+ years in such fine condition.  Yes, there are rust spots here and there, and I see one teeny barely seen double hole at the upper back shoulder (see photos with my nail), but surprisingly, one of the few silk dresses without underarm staining or weakness.... and the rest of the dress is just as strong. Classic 1830s style. Long slim sleeves, pleated diagonal shape at yoke/neckline, "v" front waist, hooks at back, oilcloth/polished cotton inner hemline lining, padded bust (!)... YES, padded bust!  The first Victoria's Secret secret!! :)  Measures: 32" bust, up to 23" waist, 54" long from shoulder to hem. 

$ 845. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)

 

 


SOLD
#5480 - RARE c. 1840's Black Striped Silk and Pink Quilted Silk Soft Bonnet with Original Attached Red Hair Curls!! Wow! I seem to have a fascination with antique wigs and hairpieces.  Can't explain it, but I'm assuming I'm not the only one.  This silk soft long lappets bonnet from the 1840s has the original attached side curls for a REDHEAD!!! Please take a look at all the other photos so you can see all the details.  Really in excellent condition except for the small area of holes at the back (from weakness of the silk at the fold), but otherwise it's still quite strong and in great condition! I'm sure the interior pink quilted silk has faded over time, but it's still pink! This is certainly a museum quality piece. 

$ 435.  SOLD


SOLD
#4523 - c. 1810 - 1820 Early 19th Century Ayrshire Embroidered Whitework Muslin Stole! Regency Shawl!  Extremely long and wide ... and gorgeous! I'm just going to be quite, and let this shawl speak for itself.  Shhh... can you hear it??  This came to me from a London dealer. A beautiful example of early 19th century Ayrshire work embroidery on muslin in a large paisley motif. Completely handworked by a very skilled needlewoman. Excellent condition... though there are extreme minor tiny age spots and about 4 small holes (2 of which are barely called holes and 2 perhaps double pinhead size).  Measures: 34" x 120" long (10 FEET LONG!) !  A clean, bright white with small fringed ends.  Hard to believe this is 200 years old!

$ 1095.  SOLD


   c. 1820                   c. 1811


SOLD
#6717 - c. 1820's Dress of White Embroidered Muslin!  Delightful and feminine hand-stitched muslin dress embroidered all over with a small leaf design.  Slightly elevated waist.  The bodice and skirt are gathered into the waistband, and the lower skirt has a froth of pretty frills in fine muslin. I really should have photographed this dress with a slip under to give it a slightly different shape, but it's just as pretty like this.  The most amazing thing about this dress is the condition... damn good! Really!  Nearly good as new.  Very strong fabric... and still quite white.  There are a few tiny pinholes here and there, and if you look really really hard, you will see an ever so slight darkening at the double ruffled hem in one area (see photos - if you can't see what I'm talking about, that will just prove how light this is!!), but I'm being overly picky for a dress nearly 190 years old.  Oh, and one other issue is that the waist tie tapes are missing at the back (only one small bit of one side still exists), but these are easily replaced. But I guarantee, you will be amazed by the overall condition!  Ooh, and those cuffs are lovely! Even has a simple lacy embroidered net collar.  Hand-sewn original buttons at back and cuffs. Measures:  30" bust, 24" empire waist, 50" long from shoulder to hem. 

$ 1,465.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#3356 - c. 1800's EDE & SON Robe Makers,  94 Chancery Lane, London Men's Barrister Wig of Horsehair with Old Oval Wig Tin Box!  In amazingly fabulous condition!!  This wig looks practically like it would have when new!! The tin box shows it's age in the scratching and deterioration of paint, but other than that.... it's also in remarkably great condition. I apologize for displaying this on a female mannequin... although seems fair, as women have come a long way over these 200 years! :)  I don't believe the tin was the original for the wig as the tin is tagged "From J.F. Albin, Judicature Wig and Robe Maker, Essex Court Temple".  The name on the top of the tin box is "Frank ......, Esquire" (can't make out the last name). But the wig fits in the box as if it were made for it.  Ede & Son were the "Robe Makers to Her Majesty"!   I've been doing research on these wigs and found this tidbit... "In 1822, Humphrey William Ravenscroft, a London wig maker (who merged with Ede & Son in 1902), patented a new wig making technique which removed the need for curling and powdering, and which secured the tails. The curls were permanent and the wig could withstand being folded up in a tin without losing its shape or the curls."  So... that dates this to 1822 at the earliest.  I also just discovered that this wig has to be dated between 1868 when Ede and Son was first renamed, and 1921 when it merged and named Ede and Ravenscroft (still in existence in the same location!!).   

$ 1,800. SOLD

FROM MUSEUM QUALITY ESTATE

SOLD

#5103 - c. 1800 RARE Embroidered Sheer Woven Muslin Trained Gown! The color is an off-white of a ever so slight robins egg bluish tinge, which you see when placed against a true white. Lovely piece!!  Embroidered transparent evening dress with train, likely English or French in gorgeous woven block design with wavy embroidery, gathered string tie sleeves, low neckline and squared off train!  Extremely rare to find these gowns with trains.  As I read,  trained gowns pretty much disappeared by 1805/1806.  There are a few small holes (see photos) that could just use some darning, but otherwise in lovely clean condition!! This is impossibly small in the back... just 4" across back between armseams!!  I had to find my teeny black mannequin for the back photo (so my photo isn't as pretty as it should be!). The sides of the bodice and sleeves are lined in a tight woven fairly stiff cotton (see interior photos)!  The string pulls at the sleeves don't easily pull, so as you see one sleeve is more puffed than the other, but certainly these can be fixed to work.  Center bodice ties as well to fit.  The back of the gown closes with "corset ties" (though no cord remains there).  Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

$ 2,250.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)

FROM MUSEUM QUALITY ESTATE

SOLD
#5096 - c. 1837-1840 Cream Silk and Linen Wedding or Evening Gown with Satin Trim!  So sweet! But as pretty as this is, you won't be able to wear it unless you have the body of a 10-year-old (ish).  It's tiny!  I have it on my smallest mannequin.  So it's great for display!!  And as you see... pretty as a picture!  Worn off the shoulders for a gorgeous neckline.  "V" waistband, puffed sleeves below a pleated upper arm covered with matching ecru satin band, horizontal pleated upper bodice are all elements from the late 1830s.  Excellent condition!  Surprisingly good!  There are just a few stitches out on the pleating, and the satin armbands look like they might have been added in 1840 to update the dress a couple years.  I see a few extremely minor spots here and there (just a couple really) and only one that is worth mentioning on upper skirt .5" light brown spot that has weakened the fabric a smidge there. I'm being EXTREMELY PICKY for any dress.... and almost ridiculously picky for a dress of this age!  Underarms are near mint!  Dress is strong and wearable if you happen to have a young girl in this size. Back hooks and eyes seem original.  The semi-sheer material is gorgeous with ecru silk threads embroidered or brocaded onto perhaps a silk/linen blend or linen batiste.  I need to go to school to learn the proper names for materials but it's quite intricate and very subtle.  Measures:  30" bust, 22" waist, 47" long from shoulder to hem.  However, it's the 13" back and 14" shoulders that make it so small.  It is on my tiniest mannequin. As Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837, this is a very Early Victorian Wedding Gown. Check out the museum photos from LACMA of same era wedding gowns (just click on photo at left).  It's likely that that one spot mentioned on the dress was from flowers worn at waist!  Also Listed in the Wedding Category. 

$ 1,165. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
  
 


SOLD

 

#6606 - c. late 1700's, 18th Century Calash Bonnet of Green Silk!The last time I listed a green calash bonnet, I wrote that I didn't know why they were mostly green... and I got an email from a website groupie who told me that it was considered the most flattering color, hence most are green!  Since I look horrible in green, I'm sure it had to do with the light colored and/or powdered white faces.  Certainly they didn't have my olive skin!!  As you may know, the calash was worn to protect the immensely high hairdos of the era. They folded flat for easy storage both at home and at the location wherever the women traveled.  You can just imagine the coat check problems if these didn't fold down! ;0  These were worn later into the early 1800's but those calash bonnets did not collapse as did the earlier ones.  Every hat collection needs a calash.  This one is in very good condition, but as you see, it does have some wear on the cane edges.   Still in better condition than most!  Oh, by the way.. the word Calash either comes from the French word "Caleche" (Carriage) as they resembled the fold down tops of fine carriages... or from the Czech "Kolesa" (wheels)., or Polish "Kolaska" (wheeled carriage).  Ah... who to believe! :) Also listed in the Hats, etc. Category.

$ 495.  SOLD


SOLD

#1920 - c. 1800-1806 RARE Embroidered Sheer Muslin Trained Day or Evening Gown! Trained gowns were worn for day or evening wear until c. 1806 when day dresses with trains were no longer fashionable, so that perhaps helps to date this gown. Even I can't believe this gown is being shown on my size 6 mannequin/dressform!  Usually these Empire era gowns are so small you can barely display them at all.  Perhaps it's because, as you can see, this gown is a quite rare design worn UNDER the BUST!  As you can see, there are small French knot buttons at each side of the bustline which I'm assuming (unless she was working in a brothel :) means that there would have been material worn horizontally across the bust of perhaps a silk or muslin chemisette or tucker, and perhaps ties pulled through bonded slits at sides.  The gown is a white (not a bright white) embroidered transparent muslin gown, likely English or French in traditional botch - paisley pattern, gathered fully rounded train, double string ties at back bodice, 1/2" tuck at front hem, some small holes, four tiny stains, some period darns, some wear to bodice edge.... but all in all for the age, it's in quite good condition.    Also Listed in the Museum Category. 

$ 2,250.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)


SOLD

 

#5611 - c. 1840's Cream Satin Wedding Gown!  Don't even think about wearing this for your wedding, unless you have the body of a 10-year-old! OK, I don't mean that to sound creepy.  I'm just trying to say that it won't fit any women today. However it's the PERFECT display gown due to the size it will look exquisite standing in the corner of your room!   SO sweet!!!  I love the padded bust, scoop neckline, cap sleeves, "v" waisted bodice.  I can just imagine the bride wearing this with wax flowers decorating the gown and shining in the candlelight. I'm sure his heart just skipped a beat or two when he saw her!   Excellent condition everywhere except there are underarm stains (see photos - these are really not seen for display) and the tiniest little light spots here and there (hardly worth a mention for a gown of this age!) and two spots on hemline (see photos).  Closes at back with hooks and eyes and a tiny rope tie at top.  Measures:  32" bust, 25" waist, 51" long from shoulder to hem.  However, it's the 13" back and 14" shoulders that make it so small.  It is on my tiniest mannequin. As Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837, this is a very Early Victorian Wedding Gown.  Also Listed in the Wedding Category. 

$ 800.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
  
 


SOLD
#5606 - c. late 1830's Dress of Golden Silk with Matching Pelerine! Like going back in time... this dress is in superb, strong condition (other than dark underarm stains which are hardly seen when displayed and slight old repairs underarm). Any other issues are so minor, they are hardly worth a mention. This dress has it all!  Pleating, ruffles, stitched down gigot sleeves, tight lower sleeves, "v" at waistline at front, cording, "corset" like detailing at front bodice.  Wonderful detailing on bodice and the sleeves... which include an interesting band that moves along under the elbow with your arm so it's more comfortable than a tight armband!!  Nicely inventive for the era!! Comes with the original matching pelerine (small shawl). Measures:  30" bust, 23" waist, 53" long from shoulder to hem. Though worn off the shoulders as you see. Hook and eye closures at mid back. 

$ 1,385.   SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#3358 - c. 1840's Ivory Figured Silk Two-Piece Gown with Provenance from the Farnsworth Estate of Massachusetts! Unworn Condition!! From the family of Amos Farnsworth Jr., son of Amos Farnsworth who fought in the battle of Bunker Hill, and whose diary is displayed at the Mass Historical Society. This gown previously sold in 2001 for $1,800 (so with inflation...well... do I have to say more? :).  Beautiful, unworn condition! Lovely ivory figured silk.  The bodice is closely fitted and boned, forming deep "v" below waist, and lacing up the back with self standing collar trimmed with purple ribbons and lace.  The sweet puffed sleeves have long net undersleeves attached ending in net ruffles and trimmed with purple ribbon bows.  The skirt is pleated into waistband and tightly gathered at center back, with deep pocket on right side.  Glazed cotton bodice lining is stamped with attractive "Grass Bleach" with harp logo. Interesting pocket in the skirt and tiny pocket off the bodice waist!  Measures:  30/31" bust (with the lace-up "corset" back), 23/24" bodice waist, 26" skirt waist (larger than the bodice as she would have worn petticoats under which would take up waist room), 42" long from waist to hem.  Excellent condition with just some brown residue in lining (see photo) and minor holes in netting of one sleeve (largest size of double eraser head)... oh, and one brass aglet is missing from one end of the original lacing. 

$ 1,885.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#4272 - c. late 1700's, 18th Century Calash Bonnet of Green Silk! I've read that most calash bonnets were formed of green silk, though I can't tell you why!  I have seen black, blue and tan, but green seems to be the norm.  They are rare to find outside of museums, but you can find them now and then... but RARELY if EVER do you find them in this amazing condition!  It's almost like new!!  I can't find anything to mention other than two tiny tears in the ivory lining (which is usually never found intact, if there at all!). It's really nearly perfect.  As you may know, the calash was worn to protect the immensely high hairdos of the era. They folded flat for easy storage both at home and at the location wherever the women traveled.  You can just imagine the coat check problems if these didn't fold down! ;0  These were worn later into the early 1800's but those calash bonnets did not collapse as did the earlier ones.  Every hat collection needs a calash.  This is the best you will find!   Also listed in the Hats, etc. and Early Categories.

$ 1,495.  SOLD


SOLD
#6619 - c. 1725 RARE Formal Shoes of Golden Beige Satin!  The dating of these shoes was from a museum expert who states that the "striped" design with silk braid was a style uniquely characteristic of the mid 1720's.  These shoes would have been worn with a buckle which would certainly have "fancied" them up! Hard to describe the condition.  I suppose for the age they are excellent, but there are issues of wear - mostly at the edges.  The photos will really describe the condition better than words. Tiny areas at the where the satin has worn through to the muslin under, but they are 99% intact..... and most of the braiding is still intact (note: the 9 lines of braiding were only on back of heel, so braiding is not lost on the side of the heels).  Structurally very sound!  An amazingly early pair of shoes not often found on the open market!  Measures: 2.75" wide x 9" long.  

SOLD

Direct From GREENWICH, CT Estate

SOLD
#9923 - c. 18th Century (likely c. 1750) EXTREMELY RARE Shield Shape French Gold Bullion and Silk Couched Embroidered Figural Pocket Purse with Gold Sequins!  Female Figure on One Side, Male Figure on the Other Side!! Dogs on Both Sides! :) SO rare, that the only other one I've seen of this quality (and even THAT one doesn't compare!) is from London's Victoria and Albert Museum (Museum number  T.89-1935!!  They list theirs as "Date: 1700-1799" and listed as "French".  Unbelievably intricate handmade figural and architectural designs of colored silk couched embroidery with gold bullion metal embroidered into fugureal designs and surrounding designs.  Wearing "modern day" dress (of the mid-1700's) of muted pastel color palettes. The side panels are more intense colors of a rose, burgundy and gold bullion embroidered  Top-closing, side-hinged metal frame with the intricate front and back embroidered panels sewn on. Measures: 4.5" high x 3.5" wide at top.  Excellent condition with only a few tiny gold sequins missing (on closest inspection) and slight pile loss in the design both sides ... but looks like it's meant to be cloud formations in the sky!  Any imperfections are of extreme minor nature.  For something this rare and age, most people would call it "Near Mint" condition!! Green silk interior.  All Original.  Opens by pinching the side hinges.  Mechanics are perfect.
$ 2,950. SOLD
Movie Repro - MANSFIELD PARK

SOLD
Click on image for additional photos!
#4857 - c. 1999 repro 1810 Deep Navy Wool Felt Empire Trained Equestrian Riding Gown and Jacket from Jane Austen's Mansfield Park 1999 film version!  COA!  Every once in a while I'm able to get my hands on some fabulous period reproduction pieces that are beautiful enough to compare to the original period gowns. This one captivates your heart! You will never find another quite so realistic.  The jumper gown can be worn buttoned up at the sides as you see, or just unbutton to wear straight. The jacket has violet-blue velvet collar, cuffs and buttons.  Near mint condition.  Purchased directly from the production company and comes with COA that calls it "Andrea's Vest and Jumper".  I'm not sure who Andrea was in the flick, but in this instance it's all about the costume itself, not the actress.  Same size as the other Mansfield Park gown I had worn by Embeth Davidtz as Mary.  NOTE:  The Riding habit worn by Frances O'Connor as Fanny Price in this same movie is on display at the highly prestigious Fashion Museum of Bath, England!!!  Measures:  31/32" bust, 65" long in front from shoulder to hem, 77" long in back from shoulder to end of train. So beautiful you might have to buy yourself a horse!  

$ 1,295. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
#9668 - c. 1830's/1840's White Printed Muslin Summer Gown for Young Woman! Beautiful gown... either this woman was tiny, or it's for a young woman. Due to the smallish size it would make a wonderful display gown!! Won't take up half your room! Very off the shoulder style with the pretty gathered short sleeves. I've shown the interior and exterior so you can see the usual construction. The material is a gauzy muslin with printed white squares and sweet tiny flowers. Fresh and clean (white, clean underarms, etc) with a few flaws.. small rust stains at back hooks (mostly seen under), small very light spot at front skirt just under waistband, and hard to see eraser head sized holes in gauzy muslin. They are "here and there", but again, they are seen only on inspection. Shown over a hoop (not included). Measures: 30" bust, 23" waist, 38" long from waist to hem.

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#1532 - c. 1805-1810 Embroidered Empire Muslin Gown! White muslin gowns like this were in fashion from 1800-1820. However I have seen few gowns of this era with a diagonal design in the skirt! Most are more classical in design. So I will call this rare. Excellent quality embroidery in neo-classical left motif. The gown is a white muslin, only lined in the bodice, and the rest of the gown is fairly sheer. Modified square neckline. Gathered bust. Tiny pouf sleeve caps over long straight arms. Measures: 31" bust, 52" long from shoulder to hem. Minor light spots on the shoulder poufs and front. Overall could use a bath by a professional to whiten. 3-4 fabulous period darns, museum quality in themselves (see close-ups), and one minor slight tear at sleeve cuff. I am again being extremely picky for a gown nearly 200 years old!! Frankly it's remarkable.

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)

SCREEN WORN GOWN 
in movie "DESIREE"

[ORDER ITEM - #7405]
Click on image for additional photos!
NOTE: MOVIE COSTUME in the style of c.1804!  # 7405 - c. 1954 Worn in the Movie "DESIREE" Ivory and Gold "Regency" or "Jane Austen" Trained Appliqued Braid and Sequins Gown!   The "BEE" design is the symbol of the Bonaparte reign!  One of these original  movie gowns has already sold... this is the LAST one available.  Napoleon Bonaparte had 3 sisters. All three (OK, the actresses who played the three sisters, not the actual sisters... they are dead) carried the train of Napoleon's wife Josephine (that's Marlon Brando, by the way, not the real Napoleon and Merle Oberon as Josephine) in the Coronation Scene of the movie "Desiree".  You can see the gowns behind the robe train in the left photo below.  I've already sold the gown worn on the sister at the right... but this one was worn by either of the other two... which see to be identical (?).  As you can see, there would have been a red strap robe attached to each gown worn around the empire waistline.  The RIGHT photo below is a painting of the original coronation in 1804!!  So you can see the costume designer duplicated the gowns quite faithfully!  An exceptional ivory satin embroidered trained gowns in the Regency or Jane Austen style that so many brides love, so this could easily be your wedding gown!!  However, this is a vintage Hollywood movie memorabilia gown, so it will have "costume" detailing... but if you love the movie, "Desiree" as much as I do, getting married in one of the screen worn original gowns is a dream come true! This heavy satin gown with Bee motif measures:  34/35" bust, 29.5" underbust, up to 29" waist, up to 41" hips, 54" long from shoulder to hem in mid front (tulip hem),  71" long from shoulder to hem in back.  The gown snaps up the back with large snaps (a few need re-sewing... I'd do it, but you don't want me to!).  The gown is in Excellent condition with a few minor exceptions.  One or two tiny spots that can be easily covered with sequins or appliques, a few rhinestones and sequins missing (hardly worth mentioning), and the only real issue is that the wrist strap (at the back of the gown) to hold the train as you dance) has pulled a small hole in the fabric at mid back seam.  Again, a simple applique, bow, or anything else will cover in seconds.  The gown is just EXQUISITE!!!!!    Oh, by the way, Brando's Napoleon costume from "Desiree" sold for $73,800.  And Josephine's gown sold for $22,500!!    Also Listed in the Wedding and 1800-1840's Categories.     Final Sale Movie/Memorabilia piece.

$ 4,850. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4, perhaps 6
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
#1625 - c. 1820 White Cotton Embroidered, Tucked and Cutwork Gown in Grape Design (Jane Austen Era) So did you see the Pride and Prejudice miniseries...or the movies Sense and Sensibilities or Emma? If not, run, don't walk to the nearest video store and rent them! Trust me!!! Those are definitely the best Jane Austen adaptations in my book. Oh wait, I forgot... I'm not a movie critic, I'm sorry, but I just had to let you know! So, now that I've got you in the right frame of mind, take a look at the dress to the left. I used to only like the most elaborate gowns until fairly recently. Perhaps it was the movies, I don't know. Whatever it was, I became enamored of the clean classic lines of these early gowns... not to mention the awesome feeling of owning a piece 180 years old! This gown fits on my junior size mannequin (30" bust)... but please if you want to play dress-up, please only do it for a photo op... can you imagine the horror of spilling wine on this?? Very Good condition for a gown this age. Nice and white, Strong fabric. Has pin and bebe sized holes mostly near the bottom of the dress and a lovely old "L" shape darn/repair. Gorgeous details on the bodice, hemline and cuffs! Full upper sleeves. Empire waistline. Hook and eye under-bodice closure and little tie outer-bodice closure. (note: the little mark you see on the upper bodice is the mannequin - not the dress!) Don't pass up this opportunity.

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)