Mantua

This court mantua of the 1750s features the triple-sleeve ruffle also found in fashionable dress. By the 1740s, the mantua was worn only at court, although it continued to evolve slowly in style through the remainder of the 18th century. In this example, the fashionable 1750s triple ruffle has superseded the ‘wing’ cuff of the 1740s. The curvilinear shape of the ruffles and tiered effect echo the stylistic characteristics of the prevailing Rococo style.

The mantua is made of a Spitalfields brocaded silk lustring dating from about 1745 or 1746, and trimmed with coloured silk bobbin lace. Once a fresh green, warm salmon-pink and ivory, the lace has faded somewhat from exposure to light.