Patchwork Robe

Overview: This robe, likely made for a woman, is made from a variety of silk fabrics, cut into patches.

Construction: The outer lining of this robe is a quilted amalgamation of many different patterned silk fabrics. There is no consistency between the size, shape, or patterning of the individual panels: some are square and geometric, others are curved and floral. Many of the quilted panels are brown, red, and beige, but there are a few bright blue and dark black patches. The quilted panels consist of crepe de Chine, satin, and various other woven silk fabrics. Each panel is bordered with embroidery. The colors of the floss include purple, red, yellow, green, blue, and pink. The embroidery is done with silk floss in a thorn stitch. The front and neck edge of the are bound with black velvet that is 3 3/4 inches wide. This border continues along the hem where it is only 1/2 inch wide. This velvet is sewn into the body of the jacket with a purple thread, perhaps faded from the original black. The interior is lined with a solid light blue cotton. The interior of the body consists of a single blue panel that is skillfully joined to the sleeves. A small hole in the interior lining reveals white silk fabric, upon which the patches are likely sewn before the robe was assembled.

Provenance: The garment was given to the Costar Collection by the estate of Kay Adamson.

Damage: There are several holes in the interior lining, along with some discoloration. Some of the silk patches on the surface are deteriorating.