This piece was made in the 1920's and would originally have been part of a dress, designed to be worn over an under dress. At some point, whether the skirt section became damaged or they wanted to update it to a more modern style, it has been altered into this loose fitting top. It is longer in the back than the front and sits low, so will need to be worn over something.
Made from inky black, lightweight pure silk it is a very simple, loose fitting style. The hand embroidery on the piece is incredible and features two large Chinese dragons, covering the entire bodice, worked in vibrant pink and pale blue. There is a small area of embroidery in the centre back of the piece.
The embroidery is so incredible and it is so much better in real life.
Measurements
Flat bust 19" but it is not meant to be close fitting and so will best fit up to a 36" bust
Flat waist 20"
Length 21" in the front and 24" in the back
Hem all the way round 42"
Condition
Good with the following points to note;
- the alteration to the piece is a little crudely done with hemming done in the same thread as the silk embroidery
- there is the most minor seam stress on the side seams
- some small tufts to a few areas on the embroidery but they are minor