Antique late Victorian-Edwardian intricate pieced lace sheer wedding gown dress

In my 25+ years of dealing with vintage and antique garments, I have never come across another hand-made piece quite this lovely. Made during the late Victorian to early Edwardian times (1890's-early 1900's), this ethereal gown is perfect for a Summer, or warm-weather wedding. It has been constructed of multiple style of laces, all hand-tatted, and some with 3-dimensional effects. These laces are beautifully pieced together, with bands and sections of semi-sheer cotton batiste fabric. On top of all that, the cotton batiste has been hand-embroidered, with large butterflies in white cotton thread, both in flight and repose (adorned with flowers as well), and these butterflies overlay the lace in places. Toward the skirt hem, we have an incredible tear-drop design, in which one of the finer laces curls around in a trompe l'oeil effect. Overall, masterful work for not only the hand-embroidery, but really, the overall design, of being able to piece the laces together with such fluid effect. (In fact, I thought this dress might be attributed to the Boué Sisters/ Boué Sœurs, but the inside finishing isn't of Parisian couture standards, as far as I know) The silhouette is sheath-like, with a fairly high (jewel) neckline, and 1/2 length sleeves. Closure at center back consists of 20 tiny metal hooks & hand-sewn loops, plus eight tiny button & loop closures at center back bodice area. I have photographed this gown, over a black fabric, in order to show off the condition and details -please note that this dress is, in fact, completely semi-sheer to sheer. Overall condition is absolutely near mint, with just a few flaws to note; two very light stains at left inner sleeve cuff, some teeny pinhead-sized holes in places, and many small unnoticeable repairs throughout -I've spent years restoring this dress to its current condition, please understand that it is this reason, plus it's uniqueness and craftsmanship, that it is priced at the price it is. No labels or maker's marks. Please review photographs for full details -and I'm always happy to send more!

Measurements:

- 15 inches across from shoulder to shoulder

- 14 inch length sleeves

- 12.5 inch upper arm circumference

- up to 36 inch bust

- up to 26 inch waist (fits 24-25 inches slightly better)

- up to 36 inch hips

- 56 inch total length from shoulder to hem