Wow! Ever seen a similar Spencer? One of the most famous garments worn by Queen Luise of Prussia (1776-1810) is a Spenceer of the same design (see the German Historical Museum in Berlin). The short lapless jackets were an indispensable part of ladies' fashion since the end of the 18th century. The garment was worn as part of the riding or promenade clothing during the morning and afternoon.
This Regency Spencer comes from England, ca. 1808, and was worn with a riding or Amazon dress "á la Hussarde". The military influence on the fashion of this time is particularly evident in this Spenceer. Especially hussar uniforms were valued as models because of their exotic appearance - not only by Queen Luise, but also by other ladies. The antique Spenceer is made of dark blue (almost dark purple depending on the incidence of light), napped wool. The borders show the typical decoration of the hussar dolmane with braids and a rich plaited decoration. Color-coordinated gimp cords have been beautifully worked into decorations on the back, on the sleeves and in the area of the high stand-up collar. The high collar emphasizes the slim silhouette of the wearer. Indicated skirt lapels. The spencer was lined with black silk. The peplum and the sleeves show remains of this silk. A chemisette with a high ruff was worn under the spenceer. We only hinted at this when draping it. For a garment of this age: good to very good preserved. Very few moth holes, missing inner silk, slight signs of age and wear. Very, very rare to find. Decoration is not included.
Bust: ~ 75 cm
Shoulder: ~ 29 cm
Front Length: ~ 30 cm
Back Length: ~ 37 cm
Sleeves: ~ 70 cm