Original: Chemise c.1850

I still need to remake most of my 1850s underthings, and decided some inspiration was in order.

American or European chemise, c.1850. The Met.

Even at the highest magnification, I can't tell what technique is used on the decorative infill. My first thought it wavy braid (as on the chemise in my own collection), though the completely contained circles would be a pain to make in that technique, which leads me to suspect tatting or crochet. However, I can't clearly see any of the stitches to make a determination. I'm certainly not copying this garment, though, so for now it can remain a mystery.