Empire-style Dress In Iridescent Coppery Burgundy Silk Taffeta, With Provenance—england, C. 1810

Circa 1810
England

Elegant day dress made of iridescent silk taffeta in a coppery burgundy color, dating from the Regency period in England. This dress bears an antique label mentioning “Mrs. H.J. Putnam,” likely the name of its original owner. Straight and loose-fitting cut, high waist with a square neckline, and long sleeves with puffed cuffs in the style of mittens. The dress fastens and is cinched at the back with a cream-colored silk ribbon. The sleeves feature an interesting smocked design at the shoulders, accented with white cotton cords that are echoed at the cuffs. Unlined. A few minor repairs and some very faint stains due to the dark, coppery color, notably under the armpits and at the bottom of the skirt (see last photo). Sturdy, durable taffeta with no holes. Good overall condition in terms of color and preservation.

Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 36/38. Length 133 cm, Shoulder width 36 cm, Sleeve length 68 cm, Bust 90–95 cm, Waist 83 cm, Hips 100 cm, Dress circumference 248 cm