Victorian bodice
Late Victorian bodice made of black linen, possibly part of a mourning costume. It has a high round neck with a black lace trim. Below this is a full inset black satin panel, gathered at the neck and waist. Two pointed front flaps with frilled lapels lined with satin hang down over the inset panel. These are fixed at the shoulder and sleeve seams but otherwise appear to hang loose. There is a small pocket inside the left flap. The bodice is fastened by a row of 21 black buttons down the centre left. The small buttons are black, spherical and decorated with a geometric motif. They appear to be cast from some sort of resin. The bodice comes down to a point at the front and has ten bones, five each at front and back. The bottom edge is finished with a self band which has become detached at the right front. Inside the bottom of the bodice there is a canvas waistband with three hooks at the back for catching the bodice to the top of the skirt. The band is impressed with the maker's stamp: Miss Carmichael, Dress & Mantle Maker, Greenock, The sleeves are slightly "leg of mutton". The upper parts, which come down about to the elbow, are of linen and slightly puffed. The lower sections are tighter and covered withf satin. They are badly worn.
Dimensions: Length 510mm waist 600mm