Striped Silk Taffeta Gown, 1880s

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.
Blue striped silk taffeta bustled gown with a piped mandarin collar atop a pleated bodice with hook and eye closures, long sleeves trimmed with flounced taffeta and lace, a columnar tie-back skirt draped with pleats, gathers, and bows with the tie-backs located in the interior which is lined with cotton crinoline. The back of the skirt has a large bow and the hemline has multiple rows ruffles.
Unlabeled
Size Label: N/A
Accession Number: 1998-240

Approximate Measurements:
DRESS
Shoulders: 14"
Chest: 32"
Waist: 23.5"
Hips: 38"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 52.5"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 28.5"
Deaccessioned by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Proceeds to Benefit the Acquisition Fund

Condition:The overall condition is good structurally with the following:Structural Issues: The taffeta fabric is splitting under each of the arms and some small splits along the interior collar facing. There is a split in the fabric on the front left pleating near knee level and a small split at the base of the front left opening. The interior skirt lining has a few splits throughout but mostly all intact. Losses: The piping has several areas where the fabric has worn away, mostly along the collar, the waist opening, and the bow details on the lower skirt. Some small losses are noticeable on the front hook and eye closures. Several of the covered buttons have become threadbare throughout the gown. Fading/Color Change: There is some yellowing throughout the entire gown though mostly concentrated on the front skirt. Soiling/Spots: There is some general soiling throughout the interior lining.Repairs/Alterations: There is a small repair on the front left waist where the skirt attaches to the bodice. The sleeves have had some additions made to the cuffs, adding a blue striped taffeta flounce and lace to each. The interior of the dress appears to have had multiple repairs or alterations which is evidenced by the various thread colors, stitching techniques, and clear stitching holes with missing threads. 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.