This is a lovely quality 100% pure cashmere cardigan sweater made in Scotland by Ballantyne for Holt Renfrew of Canada.  It dates to the 1950s.  The sweater is decorated with ribbon embroidery made in the shapes of flowers, each with a copper coloured beaded centre.  The work is made in a V shape filling the bodice and a larger V shape filling the centre back.  It has long sleeves and a rounded “jewel” neckline.  It does up with eight copper beaded buttons. It is lined in a silk crepe chiffon fabric.  The cashmere is in a light to medium thickness yet light and ultra soft. 

Label: Made in Scotland Expressly for Holt Renfrew in Canada by Ballantyne 100% Pure Cashmere    

Sizing: No size is indicated, and although the lady from whom this was acquired normally wore a medium size, please rely on the following measurements for fit:

Shoulders:  15” across, seam to seam

Sleeves:  22 1/2” from the shoulder seam

Sleeve inseam:  14 1/2”

Bust:  38” around, taken under the arms

Bottom:  24”  around, unstretched, stretches out to 32” max - it has a ribbed bottom

Overall length:  20”, measured flat

Condition:  It is in very good condition except for a pinhead sized brownish mark at the right side, next to the ribbon work (see last close-up photo).   I’ve tried to remove it, but haven’t succeeded, and didn’t want to make it worse - perhaps someone out there would have a good trick to remove it.  It’s fairly minor in any case - otherwise, there is no pronounced wear, tear, holes or other defect.  I have laundered the item, so it is ready to wear. 

This is a quality 50s era cashmere sweater with striking ribbon work!