Corset

first quarter 18th century

Not on view

Of the many underlayers that 18th century women wore, the corset provided the structure for the graceful posture and quality of deportment required for ladies of the time. Probably the oldest corset in the collection, this example illustrates the upright shape of the back necessary to give the 18th century woman the desired stance. The rigid V-shaped flat front formed a base for the decorative stomacher, another essential part of a lady's wardrobe. Corsets during this time were worn under the bust, pushing the breasts up in a seductive and feminine fashion.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Title: Corset
Date: first quarter 18th century
Culture: American
Medium: linen, cotton, whalebone
Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Cyril Kennedy, 1948
Object Number: 2009.300.3089
Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute

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