#1683 $1,600
Gentleman's hand-embroidered silk waistcoat, c.1790-1805
This delightful waistcoat was purchased at a New England auction. The waistcoat could be English, American, or American-made from imported embroidered panels. Whatever the exact origin, the waistcoat is a stunning example of beautiful hand-embroidery in men's wear from two centuries ago.
By the end of the 18th century, men's waistcoats had evolved to a shorter length with a straight bottom. The tradition of lavish hand embroidery was retained in many examples. The fronts of the waistcoat are fashioned from black silk satin lined with beige linen. The back is plain beige linen. The waistcoat is lavishly decorated with a floral pattern of polychrome silk floss.
Embroidered waistcoats were generally made from pre-embroidered panels called "waistcoat patterns." These panels included the uncut fronts, collars or lapel facings, button covers, and pocket flaps.
This waistcoat completely is hand stitched and all original. It was not altered from an earlier example.
The condition is almost excellent. There is slight loss of embroidery on the hem and pocket edges. The top buttons are missing—these are standard black glass buttons with metal shanks.
It measures: 34" chest, 32" waist, and 24" from the shoulder to the front hem (shorter in back).
