Public Domain

Day-Dress Jacket and Skirt

1880-1890

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Day-Dress Jacket and Skirt

1880-1890

Physical Qualities Silk, wool, metallic buttons, a: 47 x 45 in. (119.4 x 114.3 cm.) b: 40 in. (101.6 cm.)

Credit Line Gift of Merry Gladding Highby, Baltimore, MD

Object Number 2009.147a-b

The high collar, tapered sleeves, fitted waist, and extended back of this day dress created the desired silhouette for late 19th century high fashion. Outfitted in this ensemble of voided velvet ornamented with elaborate metal buttons, boxed pleats, and appliqué, a woman would appear elegant and in control. However, her movement would be restricted and her health imperiled by the undergarments required, including a corset to cinch in her waist (to 22”) and a bustle to support the weight of voluminous folds at the back of her skirt. Such concerns would lead to reform in clothing design aimed at freeing women from constrictive fashions.

Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 2009; Merry Gladding Highby, Baltimore, MD by descent; Gladding family by descent; Olivia Ward Gladding.

Anita Jones, "Curator's Choice: Recent Additions to the Textiles Collection, " Baltimore Museum fo Art, Baltimore, Jean and Allan Berman Textile Gallery, April 27 - November 27, 2011. (This piece on view in 19th century gallery of American Wing, 2nd floor only through August 2011. Replaced by Art Nouveau Cape BMA 2010.62).

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TEXTILES

Honoré Daumier

A fashionable dresscoat. - Monsieur, I assure you that this suit is very becoming!.... - Yes, both becoming and economical.... with a jacket like this, one could very well answer the door and be taken for one's own servant!

1845

Margaret Bourke-White

Czechoslovakian Peasants Dressed in their Sunday Best. Published in 'North of the Danube,' 1939

c. 1938

Honoré Daumier

My dear friend, we have learned yesterday at the theatre that a gentleman has inadvertedly stepped on your foot.... We have come to get his address and we are eager to announce that the affair is arranged.... He is waiting for you this morning in the Bois de Boulogne. You will raise pistols at a distance of 15 paces.

1845