Simplicity Day Dress In Ruffled Basin - France Circa 1795-1804

Circa 1795-1804 France Directoire or Consulate period Simple basin day dress with mini-train dating from the transitional period in fashion between the Round Gown of the Directoire and the dresses of the Consulate before a First Empire line. The etymological definition of basin is a cross-weave fabric whose warp is thread and weft of cotton. Plain basin. Piqued basin. Basin vest. Basin dress. Long, high-waisted dress in white basin fashioned embossed with fine stripes possessing natural elasticity. Bustier with oval neckline, pleated tightened in the back by double drawstrings to tie in front. Long stovepipe sleeves ruffled with embroidered muslin frills at the wrists ending in a mitten, with a repeat at the bottom of the dress. The embroidery of the ruffles on the wrists is probably Indian from Lucknow which is so characteristic of the white embroidery and stitches used by Chikan Work, then imported by the East India Companies. This rare model is original and has not been subsequently modified in its seams. This dress is clean and white because it was meticulously cleaned, it has been exhibited twice in French museums. No flaws to note. Very good condition. Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 32-33. Front height 107, back height 115 cm, sleeves 59 cm, shoulders 33 cm.