Circa 1860s Thomson's 'Bijou' No 382 Red Cotton Cage Crinoline

W S Thomson & Co of Cheapside, London was the leading manufacturer of crinoline hoops producing approximately 4,000 a day in the 1860s. The cage crinoline appeared in 1857 as a lighter and more practical alternative to wearing several layers of heavy petticoats to achieve a 'wide skirt'. The crinolines were constructed from a flexible spring steel and numerous hoops were used in each, some enabling wearers to sit comfortably, walk gracefully through doors and up stairs by incorporating a 'concertina' action.

The Butler Family, previous residence, the Abbey House, Kirkstall, Leeds