Antique Hand Embroidered Waistcoat Front: C18th France

Re-worked in the first quarter of the 20th century into a ladies modesty panel/blouse from an 18th century waistcoat front.

Decorative modesty panels were worn under a light jacket or blouse, they were popular throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Made from a cream fine corded silk which has been exquisitely hand embroidered in silks, it also has beautiful handmade silk wrapped buttons.

The embroidery is in tambour or chain stitch, with lovely gradations of colour. As is usual in these early waistcoats the decoration is concentrated down the centre front with the main body having a sprinkling of rosebuds.

Although it has been altered it is a lovely example of 18th century embroidery and button making and as such is an excellent study piece. Alternatively it would benefit from being stretched and mounted ready for framing, a service we are happy to offer from our studio, please ask us for details.

Measurements:

61 x 45cm

In very good antique condition it’s a few tiny age spots and a couple of light water marks on either side and an overall patina of age as you’d expect in an item of this antiquity.