White Cotton Christening Gown
Date1870
DimensionsOverall: 101.6 cm
Credit LineGift of Miss. Maurine Edwards, Toronto, Ontario, 1965
Object number1965.133.002
Label TextEliza Payne Benson made this christening gown in 1870 for her granddaughter, Emma. Eliza’s grandson, William, wore it for his 1877 christening. Following tradition, the dress is white to symbolize the baby’s innocence and purity. Benson made it of fine cotton. She worked a centre panel of pintucks and broderie anglaise (English embroidery). This technique of cutwork and embroidery originated in Eastern Europe. The French called it broderie anglaise because of its popularity in 19th century England.
NameGown, Baptismal
