Textiles and Stuff

Description

This is a very attractive example of a filler, probably dating from the early nineteenth century. It was worn under the dresses of the time, which had very wide and low necks and was therefore named a tucker or filler.

It is made of a fine cotton fabric with a delicate collar, in a dainty type of whitework edged with bobbin lace. The whitework is very finely done, in a design of a lattice with tiny circles alternating with flower sprays and leaves.

The back section has a tape at the waist which was tied round the waist at the front and the front sections of the bodice were pinned at the waist to keep it in position.

The measurements are as follows the back from the neck edge to hem is 12 inches (30 cms.) and the front from the shoulder to the hem is 14 1/2 inches (36.5 cms.). The shoulder seam measures 7 inches (17.5 cms.). The side seams are finished with a hand stitched hem.

The filler is in good condition. There are two very small areas of weakness on the collar, one of which can be seen in the last photo and there are a few small brown marks on the back of the filler and one on the lace on the collar, but these are very small imperfections on what is an exquisite piece of needlework. This is a very flattering filler and would make a great addition to a period costume.