Ladies Seated Outside

Photograph

Ladies Seated Outside

ca. 1885

This outside photograph, of two women seated in chairs while two young girls sit at their feet, was taken some time during the 1880s.

The women's hats, in particular, are excellent examples of the high-crowned and narrow brims so popular during that decade. The use of feathers on the left reflects the interest in using natural objects for decorative purposes. Even the girls' hats are in keeping with the fashions of the time, with a straw hat on the left and one that suggests a more mature style on the right.

All of the dresses fit close to the body; there is an asymmetrical drape to the woman's skirt on the right. The girl in front of her wears a dress with a gathered bodice, a style that became popular after the 1870s and hints at the less-structured garments fashionable in the 1890s. 

The two girls hold books, as does one of the women. The other has ferns in her hands and a flower tucked into the front of her bodice. Given that this was taken outside, in front of a high stone wall, perhaps these are teachers and students.

Donor: Grace E. Johnston

URI 1954.72.06

Heidi McCormick
Susan J. Jerome, MS '06