Casgliadau Arlein

Large coat-type smock, late 19th century. Worn by Sir Williams-Wynn of Wynnstay when judging at agricultural shows.

Made from heavy unbleached cotton twill, entirely hand-stitched. Button fastening at front (eight small mother-of-pearl buttons to waist, two large bone buttons below). Shoulder back lined with light brown flannel. Small turn-over collar edged with open chain stitch embroidery. Shoulder capes have three mother of pearl buttons and are embroidered overall with chain stitch heart and leaf motifs edges with nine tucks embroidered with double feather stitch. Pocket flaps are embroidered with open chain stitch. Sleeves have two bone buttons at cuffs and embroidered with open chain stitch and French knots with panel of smocking at each wrist. The front panels of smocking are flanked by zigzags in open chain stitch and button holes are flanked by diamonds of single feather stitch; large back panel of smocking edged with double zigzag of open chain stitch, and at back of neck there is a panel of embroidery with leaf and tree motifs in chain stitch. Two panels of smocking at front and one large panel at back consist of honeycomb, chain and double wave smocking motifs.