Costume and Textiles Embroidered Pocket Pear-shaped pocket complemented by several sizes of stylized carnations set against vivid shades of blue and green and enlivened by small scattered diamonds and white accents. Made in United States Mid- 18th century Artist/maker unknown, American Plain weave linen with wool and silk embroidery in Irish stitch; checked plain weave linen backing, plain weave linen waistband, silk tape binding 16 3/4 x 11 3/4 inches (42.5 x 29.8 cm) Currently not on view 1930-30-36 Gift of Mrs. Hampton L. Carson, 1930 |
Gallery LabelIn the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, pockets were worn tied around the waist either singly or in pairs and could be reached through slits in the dress and petticoats. Although hidden, they were often decorative; these two examples show the use of colorful embroidery and piecing. |








