Court Gown Detail

Alexander Wilbourne Weddell (1876–1948) was an American diplomat, who served as the ambassador to Argentina (1933–39) and to Spain (1939–42). Mrs. Weddell wore this ensemble when presented at the First Drawing Room following the 1937 coronation of George VI (1895–1952) in England. The draped bodice, pinned at the shoulder, draws on classical forms, while the brocaded silk borders of the train recall textile motifs used in the traditional South Asian garment, the saree (or sari).