Quilted Skirt Or Petticoat In Indian Chevron Print - Provence, Circa 1860

Circa 1860, Provence, France. Provençal quilted skirt or cotillon in printed cotton with a herringbone pattern, dating from the French Second Empire. The quilting is in a diamond pattern commonly called ravioli, and sixteen pleats at the hem give the skirt its full volume. The printed cotton has wide stripes on a white and yellow background, with a dense scattering of motifs known as "bee" patterns in solid green, pink, red, and black. This type of skirt is generally attributed to the Avignon region or the Comtat Venaissin. A yellow twill wool braid trims the hem. The lining is a mottled printed cotton in chamois and white. The waistband features fine box pleats held in place by a yellow silk bourette braid, which appears to be original to the same period. The skirt is gathered at the front and under the apron. No flaws to note apart from some very slight discoloration of the lining. The Indian dress has retained its original, new finish. Excellent condition in terms of color and preservation. Dimensions: Height 90 cm, Waist 76 cm, Skirt circumference 303 cm