Chemise
Unknown Artist
1780–1800
Medium
linen
Classification
Chemise
Culture
American
Department
Costume Institute
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Irene Lewisohn Bequest, 2005
Accession Number
2005.368
Art Historical Context
Step into the intimate world of 18th-century American fashion with this delicate chemise, a linen undergarment from 1780–1800, crafted by an unknown artist. Dating to the early years of the American Republic, it served as the foundational layer of women's attire—a loose-fitting shift worn directly against the skin beneath corsets, petticoats, and gowns. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume through the Irene Lewisohn Be in 2005, this piece offers a rare glimpse into everyday life during a transformative era. Made from fine linen, a breathable and absorbent natural fiber prized ...