Description
A rare and beautifully expressive Victorian doll ensemble, this hand-sewn black taffeta coat with matching velvet tam reflects the careful workmanship and refined styling bestowed upon cherished dolls of the late 19th century. Trimmed with lace and lined in blue polished cotton, it is a poignant and highly display-worthy survivor.
This antique Victorian doll coat and matching velvet tam hat date to the late 19th century and were clearly home sewn with care, using quality materials and thoughtful detailing typical of doll garments made to echo adult fashion of the period.
The coat is fashioned from black silk taffeta, woven with subtle horizontal ribbing that gives the surface depth and quiet sheen. It is fully lined in blue polished cotton, a pleasing and unexpected contrast visible at the interior. The back is neatly seamed, allowing the coat to fall properly on the doll’s form.
Delicate lace trim adorns the neckline, sleeve cuffs, and hem, while lace-applied pockets decorate the front — a particularly charming and somewhat uncommon feature. A narrow braid separates the lace hem from the body of the coat, grounding the design with structure and period correctness. The front closes with tiny round black buttons, one of which is missing, as noted.
Accompanying the coat is a round black velvet tam-style hat, softly structured and finished with a pleated lace edging at the rim. It complements the coat beautifully and appears to have been made as part of the same ensemble.
Overall very nice antique condition. There is some wear to the braid at the hem, consistent with age and use, and one small button is missing. These honest signs of wear do not detract from the display appeal and instead lend authenticity to this well-preserved Victorian doll outfit.
A wonderful piece for collectors of antique dolls, period costume, or those who appreciate the artistry of 19th-century handwork on a miniature scale.
Measurements
Coat length: 11 1/2″ from shoulder to hem (front and center back)
Shoulder width: 6″ across
Sleeve length: 5″
Chest: 5 1/2″ side to side (11″ around, measured under arms)
Armhole: 6″ around
Hat:
Opening circumference: 9″
Depth: 2 1/2″
Dating Note:
Based on fabric choice, hand-sewn construction, lace trimming, and overall cut, this doll coat and hat ensemble dates to the late Victorian period, circa 1885–1895. The styling closely reflects contemporary women’s outerwear of the era, thoughtfully translated into miniature form for a well-loved doll.
This ensemble is well suited to French fashion dolls and fine German bisque dolls of the late 19th century, particularly those produced by Jumeau, Bru, Steiner, or their German contemporaries, where finely detailed, hand-sewn garments were prized.
