Antique Traditional Beaded and Sequinned Womans Bodice: C19th Tunisia

Item Details.
I have had this glorious woman’s bodice or waistcoat for many years but have decided it’s time for it to go to pastures new.

Originally from Tunisia, North Africa this is a traditional costume bodice has patterns and techniques passed down through generations.

With birds, flowers, arrows and fish along with other decorative elements, all worked in antique silver sequins and beading.

The top has been entirely made by hand and has a silk type material which is covering card - to make it stiff, and has been lined in a patchwork of printed cotton, wool and other offcut materials.

Measurements.
Shoulder tip to shoulder tip: 64cm
Chest: 99cm + (adjustable)
Length back: 27cm

Condition.
In good antique condition with an overall patina of age, some rubs, losses around outer edges and light wear to surface. The sequins and beading have discoloured over time and have (in my opinion) become more beautiful, the sequins have become semi translucent and the beading have darkened and become subtle and are now a grey taupe.