![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 01](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/649787/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 02](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/649786/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 03](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/649785/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 04](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/649784/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 01](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/614072/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 03](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/614070/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 02](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/614071/preview)
![GH017010; Dress [Maternity]; 1840s; Unknown ; view 04](https://media.tepapa.govt.nz/collection/614069/preview)
item details
NameDress [Maternity]
ProductionUnknown; dressmaker; 1840s; England
Classificationdresses
Materialscotton, metal
Materials SummaryPrinted cotton
Techniqueslace making, hand sewing
DimensionsCentre back: 1240mm (length)
Registration NumberGH017010
Credit lineGift of Mary Gilmer, 2010
Overview
This much worn, faded and mended dress from the 1840s is thought to have been worn during and after pregnancy.
The dress features an apron front which enabled the wearer to let the dress out as her pregnancy progressed. The bodice also fastens at the centre front, making it easy for the wearer to unfasten the dress to nurse her baby.