Maker
Unknown, American
Additional Title(s)
- Pair of Canvas Work Pockets
ClassificationsDECORATIVE ARTS
Dateca. 1775
Mediumwool, linen, and cotton canvas
Dimensions14 1/2 × 9 in. (36.8 × 22.9 cm.)
DescriptionA pair of canvas work pockets in wool and linen; worked in an Irish stitch, multicolored geometric patterns in shades of red, green, blue and yellow, bound with wool twill tape, lined and backed with linen.
Worn in the 18th and 19th centuries, a pocket was tied around a woman’s waist and worn under or over the skirt.
Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gift of Jonathan and Karin Fielding
Label TextBecause most American women’s clothing in the 18th century lacked fixed pockets, detachable pockets such as these were tied around the waist and worn either over a dress or under an overskirt. Decorated in a variety of patterns, including the combination of the flame and diamond-within-diamond designs seen here, they were used to carry a variety of items, from keys and papers to sewing implements and tools. They were worn both singly and in pairs. However, it is extremely unusual for a pair such as this to survive intact.Status
On viewObject number2020.15.4.1
