P83.5.9

Images (7)

Luxury_52 Left to right 72.111.3 (pink dress), 2004.31.4 (shoes case), P87.17.1 (hat case), 79.86.63, 79.86.124, 97.57.2 (shoe heels case), 2006.61.1 (shoes case), 81.88.1 (velvet coat), P91.31.1 (textile wall), P83.5.9 (orange dress), 96.69.16 (dress), P83.39.8 (layered dress)

Luxury_16 Left to right 2003.12.1 (gown), 83.79.1487 (textile wall), 72.111.3 (pink dress), 2004.31.4 (shoes case), P87.17.1 (hat case), 79.86.63, 79.86.124, 97.57.2 (shoe heels case), 2006.61.1 (shoes case), 81.88.1 (velvet coat), P91.31.1 (textile wall), P83.5.9 (orange dress), 96.69.16 (dress hidden), P83.39.8 (silk dress)

Object: Evening dress

Designer: Paul Poiret (1879 - 1944)

Date: c. 1926

Medium: Gold silk chiffon, beads and rhinestones

Country: France

Credit Line: Museum purchase

Object number: P83.5.9

DescriptionBeaded evening chemise with shaded fountain design in white, pink and orange bugle beads on gold chiffon; curved drops outlined with silver spangles and beads; tabbed hem with black bead edge; rhinestone bands at V-neck and armholes

Label Text:The intricate beadwork on this dress resembles the "fountain" motif prevalent in Art Deco design, but the pattern has been turned upside down, evoking trompe l'oeil fringe. The shaded gradation of color adds depth, alluding to three-dimensionality and the play of shadow and light caused by movement. Poiret cleverly reinforced this theme by cutting the hem so the scalloped shapes are free to move with the wearer.

In Collection(s)

1920s

Exhibitions:

Luxury