The Wilberforce Waistcoat c. 1770-1790

3D Model

Undoubtedly one of the finest items in the collection, this elaborately decorated silk satin waistcoat dates from the zenith of an extravagant era in gentlemen’s fashion. ‘Worn by Bishop Wilberforce’ - a single piece of intriguing provenance that came with the piece. Whether it belonged to famed abolitionist William Wilberforce in his wild Grand Touring youth, as well as his Bishop son or grandson, will likely remain an open question.

With floral embroidery in coloured silk & metal lace and inlaid blue/white glass petals & sequins, the work put into this stunning piece of clothing by skilled craftspeople can only be imagined - along with the vast cost. The embroidery extends to each individual button, while on a more practical note, the centre seam at the rear has been opened, with cotton bands added to extend the size.

For further info on the story and HD photos of the detailing, please see: https://www.henfieldmuseum.org/waistcoatwardrobe

Henfield Museum, photogrammetry by 3Dify. CC BY-NC-SA.