Petticoat

Unknown

ca. 1900 · wool, silk · Costume Institute

During the nineteenth century, petticoats served more than one purpose. In addition to supporting the outer skirt, they provided warmth as an extra layer and modesty by disguising the shape of the leg. Flannel petticoats, such as the one seen here, were a very common form of underwear for winter for women and girls. The embroidery at the hem is particularly elaborate and is highlighted with flower centers, adding a more elaborate sense of style.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1900

Medium

wool, silk

Culture

American

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Madeleine Tamburro, 1960