Empire Silk Spencer, France, ca. 1805 – Rare Early 19th‑Century Fashion Chicago with only a few tiny

with only a few tiny holes—remarkably minimal for a textile from the Directoire era

The jewellery is not included

fine embroidery

A few glass beads are certainly missing

Back fastening with hooks and eyelets

Empire Silk Spencer, France, ca. 1805 – Rare Early 19th‑Century Fashion Chicago with only a few tinyThis rare silk spencer from the Empire period, dating to ca. 1805 and originating from France, is an exquisite example of early 19thcentury Neoclassical fashion. Designed to be worn over dresses with a highset Empire waistline, this short jacket features a delicate lilactoned silk in beautifully preserved condition. The spencer is constructed with puffed sleeves, lined on the inside with fine gauze fabric, giving them their characteristic volume. The