Busk

Art Historical Context

Step into the opulent world of 17- and 18th Italian fashion with this wooden *busk*, dating from 1675–1725. A *busk* was an essential rigid insert for women's corsets, laced down the front to provide structure and support, shaping the idealized silhouette of the Baroque era. Crafted from wood—a lightweight yet durable material—this artifact from Italy's Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art highlights ingenuity of period undergarments, blending functionality with subtle artistry. During this time, Italian tailoring influenced European courts, emphasizing elaborate gowns that req...