This auction is for a rare, authentic antique Civil War era silk irridescent-like textile remnant salvaged from an 1860s ballgown. It is in wonderful condition for its age, fibers are strong, and useable for one's project. However, inherent with age, there are some discoloration marks/age marks throughout. There is also an area where this was hemmed with a fine string-like thread (Photo 3) that I have removed the stitches to make it one big piece of fabric. The discoloration marks are not that noticeable simply because the fabric has an irridescent appearance and it sort of blends in, however, they are still there. The colors are beautiful (purples, pinks, rose, eggplant, golds, olive green). If one wishes this to be absolutely perfect, please do not bid, however, considering its age and the availability of fabrics from this era, it is simply wonderful. To give one an idea of size, the darkest portions, a square, measures approximately 2 1/4" x 2 7/8". The entire piece measures approximately 46" x 19 3/4". There is a self-selvedge on one side lengthwise that is about 1/4", but it blends right into the rest of the fabric. This is my last large piece. Please also remember that colors vary on monitors, therefore, it may look different in shade. I can only say that it is beautiful. There are no rips, tears, brittleness or deterioration, however, this does not mean that one should still not handle this gently with no tugging or pulling. The only flaws that I see are on the very edges, there are some diagonal slits throughout, and also one slit about 1.5", in the fabric, but this still does not interfere with the actual textile's use for one's project. This is being sold as is and IS NOT PERFECT.
I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO NOTE THAT IT IS CLOSEST IN SHADE TO THE LAST THREE PHOTOS, SINCE BEGINNING PHOTOS WERE TAKEN WITH A FLASH.
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