Medium: Green silk velvet, green silk faille, multi-color beads and embroidery

Date: c. 1888

Country: France

Credit: Museum purchase

Madame Arnaud’s Rue Bassano address did not put her at the geographic center of Paris fashion, but this elaborate morning dress nonetheless identifies her as a talented couturière. Her interest in sumptuous materials is evident in the richly colored fabrics that drape and fold to create the skirt’s sculptural form. The top folds of the velvet overskirt are stiffened to maintain an origami-like shape. This dress also has a more formal bodice to wear in the afternoon.

Object Number: 2008.46.1