Skip to main content

Woman's Dress (Robe à la française) with Matching Stomacher and Petticoat

c. 1755-1760
Artist/maker unknown, French
This gown, made of delicate floral silk, epitomizes Rococo taste. The serpentine trim and silk floss fringe emphasize the front edges of the open robe, which displays a matching triangular stomacher and petticoat. The shape of the gown--with its conical torso and wide skirt--reiterates the ideal feminine form of the time. This seemingly fragile gown would have been worn over rigid, boned stays and a hoop-petticoat.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.