The Probert Encyclopaedia of Costume

BUSK

A busk was a stiffener made from wood, whalebone, metal or other material inserted in the front of a corset. The name was also applied to a corset containing such a stiffener. Busks were made in various shapes with matching names such as 'spoon busk' 'swan bill busk' and 'pear shaped busk'.
Research Busk