Early 18th Century French Or English Infant’s Brocaded Gown/w Silver Lace

Prior to the late 18th century children were dressed as miniature adults, on offer here is a truly remarkable and rare early 18th century French or English Infant’s brocaded gown. The ground is a creamy satin with unusual cornucopias sprouting leaves and lobed leaves in silver metal and bright fresh silk threads in hues of red, green, blue and pink with cast shadows of meandering flowers and leaves on the satin. The neck and sleeves are edged with silver lace trim with cording to lace up the sleeves. Shorter in back, so the child isn’t sitting on the brocade, this gown was more than likely worn as a shift over a simple white garment and would have been gender neutral, being worn by either male or female. Lined with a simple, fine homespun linen. (Antique mannequin not included)

Condition:  This gown was assembled from a number of pieces which is quite typical of the time period with minor rub to the silver and silk threads. The lining is stained in a couple of places.