Stole
Unknown Artist
1830–50
Medium
Silk
Classification
Stole
Culture
possibly Irish
Department
Costume Institute
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Theodora Wilbour, 1947
Accession Number
2009.300.4534
Art Historical Context
This elegant silk stole, crafted by an unknown artist between 1830 and 1850, exemplifies the refined fashion accessories of the early Victorian era. Worn draped over the shoulders, stoles like this one served both practical and ornamental purposes, adding a touch of luxury to evening gowns or day dresses. Made from sumptuous silk—a premium fabric often imported and prized for its sheen and drape—this piece would have signified wealth and sophistication among the fashionable elite. Hailing from the Costume Institute and possibly linked to Irish craftsmanship, the stole reflects the era's growi...