Wedding dress with orange blossom

anoniem, c. 1880 - c. 1885

Symbolism plays an important part in the decorations for a wedding. From the 19th century onwards a white wedding dress stood for virginity, purity, and innocence. Orange blossom brought happiness and chastity, and was considered indispensable according to contemporary etiquette. Brides, therefore, incorporated orange blossoms, either real or made of wax, in their hair, on their dress, or in their wedding bouquet. In this case orange blossoms made of wax adorn the gown.

  • Artwork typewomenswear, main garment, wedding dress
  • Object numberBK-1973-339-A
  • Dimensionslength 138 cm x length 250 cm x circumference 62 cm