Jane Austen

Machine-made net was developed from the late 1760s. It became a popular ground for embroidery and machine-made laces. Its light weight and airy texture suited the simple style of early 19th century women's dress. This example in black allows for a dramatic contrast when worn over a white under-dress. The applied satin rolls and rosettes at the hem and shoulders were a new decorative trend in women's dress, which was moving away from the very plain styles of earlier Neo-classical dress. Between 1815 and 1820 the waist was very high, reducing the bodice to narrow strips of fabric at the front and back.

Novelist; drawing; hollow-cut silhouette; Jane Austen's third published novel (Mansfield Park), appeared in 1814, although it had been begun in 1811. This copy contained a silhouette in the back and the second volume inscribed L'aimable Jane, which may represent Jane Austen. As her biographer, R.W. Chapman, said 'Who would insert, in a copy of Mansfield Park, a portrait of any other Jane than its author?'; Silhouettes; Literature and Writing; Hampshire, Novelists and authors, Women artists

Novelist; drawing; pencil and watercolour; This frank sketch by her sister and closest confidante Cassandra is the only reasonably certain portrait from life. Even so, Jane's relatives were not entirely convinced by it: 'there is a look which I recognise as hers', her niece wrote, 'though the general resemblance is not strong, yet as it represents a pleasing countenance it is so far a truth.'; Hats and head-attire; Literature and Writing; Hampshire, Novelists and authors, Women artists

These elegant half-boots for women have a low, stacked heel and rounded toe. Made of kid leather, they are laced up the front and trimmed with a silk rosette. This is the type of footwear worn by genteel women at the time of Jane Austen (1775-1817).

Novelist; print; stipple engraving; Literature and Writing; Hampshire, Novelists and authors, Women artists