Dress, probably from Syria but acquired in Palestine in the mid 1880s by Miss Mercy Watson. Described in the original Museum register as 'Gypsey girl's patchwork dress'. From the inside it is possible to see that some of the patches must have been cut from other garments or furnishings. It has been made from contemporary cotton printed cloth in the style of late nineteenth century European fashion. The patchwork gives it an informal feel, although the pieces have been carefully arranged to give order and symmetry. For example darker pieces of cloth have been arranged to form two strong red bands that frame the top and bottom of the bodice, and all the strong linear patterns have been grouped together. 70 cms long. (1967.28.55).