Date: c. 1890s
Origin: Great Britain
Fabric: Cotton sateen
Brand: Custom made
An exceedingly sturdy corset that was likely worn by a working woman. It is made from an outer fabric of dense cotton sateen and a drab cotton twill lining. It is heavily structured with a combination of cording and baleen bones. The shape is relatively straight with relatively gentle curves, suggesting this was a garment intended largely for support rather than to achieve a fashionable silhouette. This is echoed by the high cut of the corset back, which would have provided additional back support for physical labour.
The unusual busk fastening has a double hook at the top and bottom, presumably for extra security during wear. The rear of the corset is fastened with cotton lacing through metal eyelets. The top and bottom edges are bound with a black cotton twill tape, with light embellishment in the form of a contrasting red woven trim at the neckline edge.
From the collection of Karolina Laskowska
