Textiles and Stuff 

This is a delightful example of a crib lining set dating from the late 18th to early 19th century. it is made from quilted silk and is in three parts. The quilting is very finely done by hand of course and is very even. There is a basic lining for the crib and two other pieces, one with I think curtains and the other an all over cover. They all have silk ribbons to attach them to the crib. Each piece is bound round the edge with the same fabric. In some parts the linings are backed in the same quilted silk, in others with a rather coarse cotton or linen fabric. The measurements are: crib base: 32” x 22” x 14” Top with hanging panels 23” x 37” Shaped section: hood 20” high, 36“ long The work is beautifully done and an unusual survival from this period and a great item for display in a collection or museum.

This is a lovely baby’s dress dating from the 1860/70s, hand made of a fine cotton fabric. the bodice is decorated with elongated diamonds of broderie anglaise and fine pin tucks. This theme is continued in the skirt, which has alternate horizontal panels of broderie anglaise and eight rows of pin tucks running horizontally across the front panel for the full length of the skirt from the waistline to the hem, which is also trimmed with the same broderie anglaise. The robings also in matching broderie anglaise run right from the shoulders of the bodice to the lower hem of the front. The sleeves are short and match the robings. The chest measurement is approximately 20 inches (51 cms.) and the overall length from shoulder to hem is 38 inches (96 cms.). The sleeve measurement is 3 inches (7.5 cms). The dress fastens at the back with tapes which can be used to gather the waist and neck to adjust the size. The dress is in very good condition but there is one small repair where the robing meets the sleeve, a repair on the frill, and also two very small darns on the back of the skirt. This is a lovely hand made dress, typical of the period and one to treasure for that special occasion, a christening or other family occasion.

This is an dainty antique baby’s bonnet in cotton hand made lace of a Bedfordshire type, which is gathered at the back to form the crown and is edged with a fine border. The design is very traditional, with a row of large leaves diagonally placed round the brim and at the crown. The neck edge measures just under 9 inches (22 cms.) round, and the measurement round the brim 12 inches (35 cms.). It is in good condition and can be worn, and could be lined. It could be used for a doll, or would be an interesting piece for a collection.