Spencer, petticoat and shawl
Medium
silk, cotton
Measurements
(a) 55.0 cm (centre back) 27.5.0 cm (sleeve) (spencer)
(b) 102.0 cm (centre back) 34.0 cm (waist, flat) (petticoat)
(c)150.0 × 180.0 (shawl)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gift Program, 2025
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
Believed to have English origins, the spencer was a short, high-waisted jacket worn for warmth. Its name derived from Earl Spencer, who is said to have accidentally singed the tails of his coat in the 1790s. A woman’s spencer could be worn both indoors and outdoors, providing some protection from cooler weather. During this period, India was under British rule, and fine imitation Kashmir shawls made from wool and cashmere were also fashionable.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(England)
Accession Number
2025.733.a-c
Department
International Fashion and Textiles