Antique dark navy velvet jacket with elaborate metallic thread embroidery, most likely a Serbian Libade from the ,

This exceptional short women’s jacket is made from deep navy blue velvet and richly decorated with floral vines, raised flowers, braided passementerie and metallic embroidery. Its most striking features are the long flared sleeves, the ornate curved decoration across the back and the vivid red sleeve lining.

Based on its cut, construction and ornamentation, the garment is most likely a Serbian Libade or a closely related Balkan ceremonial or traditional costume jacket. Jackets of this type were worn for formal and festive occasions.

Details
Origin: most likely Serbia or the wider Balkan region
Garment type: Libade, ceremonial jacket or folk costume jacket
Estimated date: circa 1880–1910
Colour: very dark navy blue
Main fabric: velvet, possibly silk velvet or a silk-blend velvet
Decoration: hand-worked metallic thread embroidery and braided trim
Metallic thread: silver-coloured and naturally tarnished; metal content untested
Lining: pale body lining with red sleeve lining
Front: open-front construction
Small interior patch pocket
Unique historical collector’s textile


Measurements
Shoulder width: approx. 50 cm / 19.7 in
Back length: approx. 37 cm / 14.6 in
Sleeve length: approx. 60 cm / 23.6 in
Upper sleeve width/circumference: approx. 38 cm / 15 in
Lower sleeve width/circumference: approx. 72 cm / 28.3 in


Condition

Authentic antique condition with visible signs of age, wear and previous use.
The velvet shows areas of pile wear, pressure marks, dust and smaller worn sections. The metallic embroidery has naturally tarnished and displays some loose threads, losses and worn areas. The lining shows wear, stressed or open seams and older repairs or inserted fabric patches.

The jacket has not been modernly restored or cleaned. Due to its age, it should be handled with care. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

The precise fibre composition, metal content of the embroidery and regional origin have not been scientifically tested. The attribution is based on the garment’s style, cut and construction.