This gown, with its open robe and matching petticoat, dates to the 1790s. The cotton fabric is both printed and painted and was made in India or England. The dress is sewn with linen thread and was probably made in America. It is a product of the revival of Greek design in fashionable architecture, furniture, and clothing. With imagination it can be seen to resemble a gown such as a Greek goddess might wear. Note the simple lines, high waist and snug sleeves. The gown shown here opens in the front, which is not as common as back closures.