Color: Black and White; Size: 8w x 10h; Type of Image: Object; Medium: Photographic print
Type:
Photographic print
Object
Date:
c. 1950s
Category:
Historic Images of the Smithsonian
Notes:
Gowns in the collection were mounted on a plaster figure which were given similar facial features copied from a bust representing Cordelia, daughter of Shakespeare's King Lear, done in 1863 by the sculptor Pierce F. Connelly, of Lousiana. By changing the expression of the eyes of each figure, and by copying the coiffure of the lady to be represented, a varied and interesting appearance was given to the entire group. The coiffure was copied from a photograph, painting, or piece of statuary of the lady whose dress was to be displayed. No attempt was made to portray the person represented, as the artistic task involved made this impractical. For additional information on the collection see the book entitled "The First Ladies Hall" by Margaret Brown Klapthor, Smithsonian Press 1972.
Summary:
Gown worn by Mary Harrison McKee (1858-1930), Mrs. James R. McKee, daughter of President Benjamin Harrison. The silk brocade gown is of a goldenrod design. The dress is part of the First Ladies' Collection now at the National Museum of American History.
Contained within:
Smithsonian Institution Archives, Record Unit 95, Box 53, Folder 4
