Dress, about 1850

Bonnet, 1825-1875

Bonnet, 1825-1875

Parian Brooch, about 1850

It is possible that this was used in mourning as it is without sheen, is colorless and is a wreath, a symbol generally associated with mourning and everlasting life in the mid nineteenth century.Furthermore the forget-me-nots scattered throughout the piece are often found on mourning jewelry.A curator from the Bennington Museum in Vermont stated (1964) that this was likely to be a British piece based on the configuration of specifics of the flowers--perhaps Minton.Parian porcelain jewelry was ra…

Boy's Red Wool Dress, about 1850

Red wool dress with wide shoulders, cap sleeves. Silk-lined Basque bodice with tucked front. Unlined flat-pleated skirt with tuck. Purple silk applique. Piping at waist and sleeve seams. Center-back hook and threaded-eye closure. Expertly hand-sewn; small stitches. This dress is notable for its exquisite workmanship, high styling for a children's garment, and unisex quality. It was probably for a boy, and probably worn with drawers and undersleeves. The bodice tucks and shoulder/sleeve construct…