Skirt Lifter

This antique brass skirt lifter, originating from circa 1900, is a quintessential piece of Victorian fashion accessories. It features a sliding clip mechanism designed to aid women in lifting their skirts while navigating the dusty and muddy streets, thus preserving the fabric's cleanliness. The brass material gives it a warm, golden hue and a sturdy feel, characteristic of period pieces. Its origin is likely British, considering the widespread use of skirt lifters across Victorian England during that era.

Condition Report

The skirt lifter is in good condition, showing wear consistent with its age and use. The brass has developed a natural patina, which is typical for an item of this period, adding to its historic charm. The sliding clip mechanism remains functional, though it may display slight stiffness due to its age. There are minor surface scratches and marks, indicative of its practical use over the years. No significant structural damage is apparent, suggesting careful handling by its previous owners.

Dimensions

Weight: 35gm, Length: 12.5cm, Width: 4cm, Height: 2cm.

Practical Fashion Accessory of the Victorian Era

During the Victorian era, skirt lifters were essential accessories for women. They were ingeniously designed to lift the hem of skirts to prevent them from dragging on the ground, especially in urban environments where streets were often dirty. This practical tool not only helped in maintaining the cleanliness and condition of skirts but also provided convenience for women navigating through the busy streets. Skirt lifters like this one were often clipped to the waistband or belt, allowing easy access for lifting and securing the skirt fabric.

Victorian Brass Craftsmanship

This skirt lifter is an exemplar of Victorian brass craftsmanship, a popular material choice during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Brass was favoured for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it ideal for everyday items like this skirt lifter. The sliding clip mechanism reflects the practical aspect of Victorian design, combining functionality with the ornate qualities brass can offer. Such items were crafted with precision, ensuring the longevity and usefulness of the accessory, which this piece adequately demonstrates through its continued functionality.

The Creation Process of Brass Accessories

Crafting a brass skirt lifter involved several meticulous steps. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, was first cast into sheets or rods. Skilled artisans would then cut and shape these into desired forms, in this case, the body and clip of the skirt lifter. The sliding mechanism would have been assembled using small, precisely made components to ensure smooth operation. Once assembled, the surface could be polished to achieve a bright finish, or left to develop a natural patina over time. The final product was both functional and visually appealing, suitable for the discerning Victorian consumer.

Victorian Fashion Accessory Makers

While specific makers of this skirt lifter are not identified, such accessories were commonly produced by jewellers and metalworkers in Victorian England. These artisans often specialised in creating practical yet decorative items for daily use. The demand for skirt lifters spiked during the late 19th century, prompting many manufacturers to include them in their product lines. They were often sold in fashionable boutiques or department stores, appealing to the tastes and needs of Victorian women who sought both practicality and style in their everyday attire.

Collected for Their Historical Significance

Victorian skirt lifters are cherished by collectors for their historical significance and unique insight into the fashion and social practices of the era. They serve as tangible connections to the past, illustrating the evolution of women's fashion and the ingenious solutions devised to address practical problems. Collectors are drawn to these items not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the stories they tell about the daily lives of Victorian women. As such, these accessories are valuable additions to collections that focus on fashion history and Victorian era memorabilia.