Mr. Eeles wore this waistcoat for his wedding in 1848. The fine white silk satin is hand-embroidered in matching white silk thread with a design of lilies of the valley and forget-me-nots. These flowers were popular for weddings, as forget-me-nots symbolise true love and lily of the valley represents purity of heart and happiness. Embroidered shirt and waistcoat Britain 1848 Some bridegrooms chose wedding garments decorated with motifs associated with love. This white satin waistcoat, worn by a Mr Eeles for his wedding in 1848, was embroidered in silk with lilies of the valley and forget-me-nots. In the language of flowers, the former signify purity of heart and the latter true love. Waistcoat: silk, backed and lined with glazed cotton Shirt: cotton with cotton embroidery Given by Francis C. Eeles V&A: T.561, 562-1919 [2011] White silk satin waistcoat embroidered with white silk embroidery in satin-stitch, designs of lily of the valley and forget-me-nots. Four self-covered buttons down front; undyed glazed cotton back and cream glazed cotton lining. The waistcoat has two pockets in the front.