Busk

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume, this intriguing metal *Busk* dates to the late 17th or early 18th century (1675–1725), hailing from European culture. A busk was an essential component of women's corsetry—a long, stiffening rod inserted into the front of a corset provide structure, support the bust, and create the desired silhouette of the era. Crafted from metal, it offered durability over traditional whalebone, allowing for intricate engravings that often featured romantic motifs, personal inscriptions, or decorative patterns, turning a functional item into a subtle work ...