Very nice and rare skating ensemble, ca. 1898. The ensemble consists of a hat, dress, skates with shoes, chest insert, handbag and muff.
The hat and muff are made of feathers from the great crested grebe (plumes de grébe). Its feathers were popular because they are water repellent. Two pompons are attached to each of the muff. Both are in good condition. The hat is losing a few feathers; on the muff, the lining is a bit torn; one pom-pom string would need to be re-sewn.
The dress is brown velvet. Taffeta and soutache appliqués. Cream silk with floral motif and embroidered lace tulle at front of jacket. Silk satin lining. Label from the USA: Jordan Marsh Co. * Boston. Top made in the shape of a bolero. Wide belt in brown silk pleated. Long sleeves. In good condition. A few signs of age and wear. The silk of the belt and on the collar is a bit "delicate". The lining of the jacket shows some wear. Lace and cotton chest insert.
Very nice handbag from the period, with a metal handle and metal clasp. Printed motif, among other things, horseshoes. Probably they should bring good luck to the skater.
Completing this unique ensemble are brown boots and skates. Both are in good condition, but show signs of age.