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The Pocket: A Hidden History of Women’s Lives, 1660–1900
by
Pencils, a sketchbook, cake, yards of stolen ribbon, thimbles, snuff boxes, a picture of a lover, two live ducks: these are just some of the fascinating things carried by women and girls in their tie-on pockets, an essential accessory throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
This first book-length study of the tie-on pocket combines materiality and gender to provide new ins ...more
This first book-length study of the tie-on pocket combines materiality and gender to provide new ins ...more
Hardcover, 264 pages
Published
June 25th 2019
by Yale University Press
(first published June 5th 2019)
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Start your review of The Pocket: A Hidden History of Women’s Lives, 1660–1900
Excellent hands-on (sorry, couldn't resist the pun) study of an article of clothing so often undiscussed. We know that women, just like men, have possessions that they want to carry around with them: money, keys, instruments of communication, grooming implements, hygiene articles. And we know that women's clothes often don't have pockets incorporated into the design. Enter the tie-on pocket, worn around the waist under the skirts and petticoats, usually accessed by slits in the various layers of
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I really liked this.
I think my only criticism is that the usage of (d) as (pence) is not explained nor introduced as being historically relevant, it’s just there. Any British person would likely know this as a matter of course so I’m simply culturally deficient here.
Otherwise, well written, well researched, excellent usage of the language. A pleasure to read.
I think my only criticism is that the usage of (d) as (pence) is not explained nor introduced as being historically relevant, it’s just there. Any British person would likely know this as a matter of course so I’m simply culturally deficient here.
Otherwise, well written, well researched, excellent usage of the language. A pleasure to read.
This is social history and fashion history and women's history all in one. Good stuff.
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A fascinating study, and an interesting insight into the lives of women and how something as simple as a pocket could provide both security and agency.
I'm contemplating making one (or two) of my own! ...more
I'm contemplating making one (or two) of my own! ...more
A captivating read! I thought I would have read it through very quickly but it is very densely written and contains an amazing wealth of information about actual surviving pockets, in addition to court documents, journal entries and pockets in literature. The most fascinating part was how many pockets were dated to have been made after 1820, it really opened my eyes about the misconception that they went completely out of fashion around that time.
As far as I know, this is the only book that goe ...more
As far as I know, this is the only book that goe ...more
Difficult to read but OK if in small doses.. Very interesting and inspiring. Loved the illustrations of pockets.
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