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Woman's corset
Woman's stays
Woman's corset
American
1820s
Place of Use: Lexington, Massachusetts, United States; Place of Manufacture: probably Massachusetts, United States
Medium/Technique
Cotton satin with cotton twill binding and silk thread
Dimensions
Overall (closed): 41.9 x 40 cm (16 1/2 x 15 3/4 in.)
Overall (open): 41.9 x 63.5 cm (16 1/2 x 25 in.)
Overall (open): 41.9 x 63.5 cm (16 1/2 x 25 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Miss Ellen A. Stone
Accession Number99.664.34
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionWhite stays, wide center casing for busk with two button-stitched holes at bottom, straps fall over sholders and lace to front, bones at sides of bust, sewn-in cords throughout (especially concentrated in front at bust and waist), gores in front below waist, twelve pairs of lace-holes at back, openings in casings for bones to support edges, back, and sides visible inside
InscriptionsWritten in ink inside center at bottom: "C. R. S. No. 3/ I have been instrumental/ in bringing thousands of the fair sex to an untimely/ graves Stays" (presumably written by Caira Robbins)
ProvenanceWorn by donor's great-aunt Caira Robbins (1794-1881); Inherited by Ellen A. Stone; Gift to MFA, 1899