Historical information

This type of chemise/camisole is believed to be early 19th century. Its original owner is unknown, but it was purchased in the late 1990s by the donor who later moved to Emerald but, at the time, had a 2nd hand decoration shop in Camberwell when she purchased this as part of a group of garments which included bloomers, lace collars and cuffs, camisoles etc - all of which have been donated to the Museum. The donor was informed at the time of purchase that the garments were over 100 years old.

Significance

This lovely hand-made cotton and lace camisole is typical of a type of undergarment worn by women inside the home in the early 19th century.

Physical description

Hand sewn, sleeveless fine woven cotton, loose-fitting garment detailed with deep cream coloured ribbon lace on armholes. The neckline is square-shaped and has a broad band of ribbon filled beneath lace detailing. The garment has 2 pearl coloured buttons on-top of the shoulders as openings.