Mitts

Art Historical Context

Step into the refined world of late 19th-century fashion these delicate silk *Mitts*, crafted around 1889 by an unknown artist. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Institute, these elegant hand coverings—short gloves that leave the fingers free—exemplify the period's emphasis on graceful, functional accessories. Donated as a gift from The New Historical Society in 197, they offer a tangible glimpse into the attire of the Victorian era's upper classes. Silk, the mitts' luxurious medium, was prized for its smooth sheen, durability, and ability to drape beautifully, making it ideal for evening wear or formal occasions. In Europe during the 1880s, such items were essential for women attending balls, dinners, or social events, balancing modesty with mobility—fingers exposed for tasks like handling fans or cards. These mitts reflect the era's sartorial sophistication, where accessories signaled wealth and taste amid rapid industrialization. Though the artist's identity remains a mystery, the mitts' survival highlights the Costume Institute's role in preserving ephemeral fashion artifacts. They invite us to ponder the hands that once wore them, whispering stories of glamour and daily elegance from a bygone age.