Children's Jacket or Shirt

Datation and origin: last quarter of the 19th century, Trieste (Italy).

A children's close-fitting, waist-length spencer (named after Lord Spencer, who made it fashionable). It buttons up in the back with a row of tiny clips; a bone has been inserted on both sides to prevent the clothing from creasing or to preserve its shape. The sleeves are wider at the wrist; the collar is rimmed with lace, the cuffs and the front part of the clothing are adorned with a white zigzag ribbon. The cotton veil fabric is printed with flower motifs. This clothing was made for a child aged 2-3.