item details
NameSidesaddle riding habit
ProductionJ. Busvine and Co.; tailor; 1892; City of London
Classificationriding habits, sports clothing
Materialswool, silk, satin
Materials SummaryHeavy melton wool lined in silk satin, with kid leather
Registration NumberGH016964
Credit lineGift of Joan and Nicky Riddiford, 2010
Overview
This riding habit was ordered from top habit makers J. Busvine & Co. in 1892 specifically to the measurements of wealthy New Zealander, Miss Jessie 'Meta' Johnston (b.1883). Miss Johnston's measurements were sent from New Zealand to London, and the finished habit was sent back. The habit was given to Te Papa by Jessie's grand-daughter.
In 1910, Meta married farmer, and later Minister of Parliament, Daniel Henry Strother Riddiford (1883-1971).