Waistcoat c. 1941

This waistcoat was created by Clarence W. Dawson. We can appreciate the drawing style, but I'm more interested in what the waistcoat itself would have been like. Presumably made of silk or a similar fine fabric with woven decoration, it represents a world of artisanal textile production. Each thread would have been carefully spun, dyed, and woven, demanding skilled labor and precise techniques. Think of the time involved, and the social context this labor occupies. The waistcoat's appearance is all about surface and texture. The weight and drape of the fabric, combined with the intricate floral pattern, create a sense of refined elegance. It embodies the meeting point of craft and fashion, reflecting traditions of tailoring and embellishment. Considering the waistcoat's construction allows us to think critically about the labor and materials involved in its creation. Hopefully, this reflection blurs the boundaries between art, craft, and the broader sphere of material culture.