Antique-Gown

The tulip has always been a status symbol. And not only in Holland in the middle of the 17th century, when the tulip was traded and was responsible for the first financial crash in world history. In the thirties of the 17th century the Tulipmania transformed large parts of the Dutch population into tulip bulb gamblers. Noblemen, peasants, fishermen, sailors, lackeys, chimney sweeps and patch cutters entered the business of the frugal spring plants without any interest in horticulture. At the peak of the fever curve, rare tulip bulbs were exchanged for canal houses in Amsterdam's best location. The prices climbed steadily until 1637, when the collapse began in Haarlem at an ordinary auction. A trader was left sitting on his bulbs. Word quickly got around. Within a short time, the market collapsed completely. Nobody wanted to buy, but everybody wanted to sell. In the end, the plants were not even worth a hundredth of their maximum price.

No wonder that this status symbol was and still is a popular motif for dresses. So also for this dress from Holland, ca. 1908. The dress is made of a beige linen fabric. The antique dress is a one piece suit. The skirt is in the lower third in pleats and decorated with lace. Small train. The top is designed in the style of a bolero and decorated with lace and pink tulips. Half-length sleeves. Back closure with hooks and eyelets. The dress is well preserved. The inner silk of the top is completely worn out, a petticoat is missing. Minor stains and darkened areas in the upper part. Nevertheless a beautiful and rare dress from Holland. The decoration is not included.

Bust: ~ 86 cm
Waist: ~ 62 cm
Front Length: ~ 150 cm
Back Length: ~ 175 cm