Silk Plaid Girl's Dress, 1850s

This dress comes from the Tasha Tudor Collection of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Tasha Tudor (nee Starling Burgess, 1915-2008) was a writer and illustrator of children's books, including Mother Goose and Corgiville Fair. The idyllic, 19th century world she painted in her books was the lifestyle she pursued: for much of her adult life Tudor lived on New England farms, weaving, tending to animals, baking bread, and collecting, mending, and wearing centuries-old clothing. For detailed biography, see Jeanette Chandler Knazek, "Tasha Tudor," Tashatudorandfamily.com.
Yellow, green, red, and white silk plaid dress with gathered front bodice that is shirred at the waist, long sleeves, full gathered skirt, and center back hook and eye closures.
Unlabeled
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: 1997-179

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 12"
Chest: 25.5"
Waist: 23"
Hips: 33"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 39.5"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 24.25"
Deaccessioned by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Proceeds to Benefit the Acquisition Fund

Condition:The overall condition is good with the following:Structural Issues: There are a few weave irregularities on the front of the skirt where the shortening stitches are sewn and just above. There is a tear at the base of the center back opening.Losses: There are some small holes in the skirt fabric, mostly on the front hemline areas.Soiling/Spots: There are multiple spots throughout the dress with darkened areas under the arms and along the sides to the waist, and numerous orange hued spots throughout the skirt especially towards the bottom hemline.Insect Damage: There are some small holes but there is no active insect activity.Repairs/Alterations: The dress has several alterations made, most noticeable under the sleeves where an additional strip of fabric has been added, the skirt has been shortened, the back princess seams have been opened, and the center back waistline has either been repaired using patches, or elongated by the same method.Everything is sold 'As Is'. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email couturecr@hindmanauctions.com with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.