Date: Stays c. 18th century, X-ray taken in 2016
Origin: Austria
These medical grade X-rays show the interior construction of a pair of 18th century stays. The stays are heavily boned throughout with baleen, with an interior metal support at the front fastening. The image indicates that some of the bones within have broken, either due to wear or the age of the garment.
The stays were found hidden in a Tyrolean farm, with little known about their original history. The materials and style suggest that they were made in the 18th century. The garment is well worn with multiple repairs and alterations. It is entirely hand sewn, and was originally made with an exterior of luxurious silk brocade. Photographs of the original garment can be viewed here.
Kindly donated to The Underpinnings Museum collection by Liz Denocte.
