Object Record
Metadata
Catalog Number |
BE979.6.810 |
Object Name |
Skirt |
Description |
A long, black satin skirt with a ruffled hemline. There are white embroidered flowers descending the length of the skirt. There are metal hooks and eyes at the waist. |
Year Range from |
1850 |
Dimensions |
W-70 L-110 cm |
History |
It was the Victorians who started the tradition of wearing all black during periods of mourning. This skirt could have been worn by Elizabeth Harris or any of her daughters. Captain Harris and his family went through long periods of mourning between 1850 and 1860 losing three of their eldest sons. The colours defined the degree of mourning and the lapse of time since the passing of the loved one from black to shades of purple. Mourning clothing has simple lines, muted decoration, symbolic colours, dull fabrics, and distinctive head coverings. References: Mourning ensemble, American 1870-72, the MET https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/159185 Mourning Fashion, University of Michigan https://clements.umich.edu/exhibit/death-in-early-america/mourning-fashion/ Museums of Mississauga exhibitions. A Journey Beyond: Mourning in Mississauga. 2007 and Death Becomes Them. 2015 |
People |
Harris, Elizabeth Molony Harris, Bessie Harris, Lucy |