Ball Gown, England, ca. 1877

This dress is a rarity. It is a visiting dress that was not worn on a visit to Queen Victoria, but on a visit from Queen Victoria. The lady of the house had it tailored for the Queen's visit to her home. Probably for a house ball. She then took the valuable and luxurious brocade fabric and went to one of the most famous shoemakers in London. The shoes bear the paper label of Hook, Knowles & Co. * London. Hook and Knowles were court shoemakers in London. Today, their shoes can be found in all the world's renowned shoe and textile museums. The shoes, adorned with small buckles, are well preserved and show only minimal signs of wear, reflecting the care and respect the former owner had for this exceptional outfit.

We date the ensemble to 1877. Bamboo leaves and roses are woven into the fabric. They bear witness to the attention to detail and the high level of craftsmanship of the textile art of the time.

The antique dress is a two-piece. The top has short sleeves and a long train. It is laced up at the back. The skirt has a small train, gathered fabric at the back and a silk and lace front. The gathered fabric sections at the back give the dress volume and shape. The hem of the skirt is quilted. We have never seen this dress in our many years of collecting, but it testifies to the high standards of this dress. In very good condition. Subtle signs of wear in the hem area. 

Overall, this ball gown is an outstanding example of the fashion and craftsmanship of the late 19th century. It tells the story of a special time and a special woman who wore it with pride and elegance. A real treasure for anyone interested in fashion and history. 

Length front: ~ 130 cm
Length back: ~ 190 cm
Chest: ~ 75 cm
Waist: ~ 55 cm