Gown, brocaded worsted damask

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  • Norwich, England
  • 1750-1765
  • Glazed worsted damask, brocaded with wool; lined with linen.
  • 1988-223

Wool gowns such as this rare example survive in fewer numbers than more expensive silk ones. Worn for everyday occasions and work, most of these gowns wore out or were not considered elegant enough to save. The skirt of this gown shows the sharp horizontal creases characteristic of deliberately pressed, or glazed, wool materials. The fabric was folded and placed under a press, causing the surface to become polished. The creasing was a necessary by-product of the technique.

Typical of most gowns of the period, the bodice and sleeves are lined with coarse linen.

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