This is a stunning ca 1840s to early 1850s cream silk gown. The gown just sits on the shoulders with a straight across neckline. The front of the bodice is densely knife pleated to a point just a few inches below the natural waistline. The sleeves on the gown are so sweet. They are little short sleeves that have a small bell-shaped to them. They have two bands of lace on them and between two little silk bows. The skirt is a full round traditional ball gown style skirt that flats out from the waistline with dense cartridge pleats. The skirt falls to the floor and the hem of the skirt has lovely swirls with flowers in a jacquard print. The subtle contrast from the matte to the satin is just stunning. The gown is fully lined. The bodice is lined in white polished cotton. The gown fastens in the back with brass hooks and eyes. At the bust, there is also a light cotton batting,padding to help fill out the desired silhouette. The skirt is lined with lightweight glazed cotton.

Condition:
Overall this gown is in wonderful condition with only a few flaws. The most noticeable is some light staining on the front of the bodice (two at the bust and 3 by the waistline). There is also one small hole about pinhead size in the top stain.
The only other thing is that there are some very faint stains on the skirt. They are just slightly darker than the cream of the fabric and hard to see in the volume of the skirt. The dress is still very stunning and is entirely hand-sewn. It's a wonderful piece for study or display and could be worn gently for photos.

Measurements
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 29"-31.5"
Waist: 22"
Hips: Free
Length:
(shoulder to hem): 51.5""
(waist to hem): 38"
Sleeves: 7"
Cuffs"10"

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage seller in Pittsburgh, Pa.