Cream Silk Bolero Jacket with Curved Front

Victorian Late / Bustle · 1870s · American

A cream-colored silk jacket with three-quarter length sleeves and a curved front opening that creates two rounded front panels. The garment features intricate white embroidered or appliqué work covering the entire surface in floral and scrolling patterns. The edges are finished with delicate scalloped trim that follows the curved hemline and front opening. The sleeves are fitted through the forearm with the same scalloped edge treatment at the cuffs. The construction shows typical 1870s tailoring with a fitted bodice silhouette that would accommodate the fashionable bustle silhouette of the era. The surface decoration appears to be white-on-cream needlework creating an elegant tonal effect.