Evening dress
c. 1924
Silk, fish scale cellophane sequins, glass, and metal
Gift of The Sons of the Revolution in The State of New York
Object number71.230.1
The shimmering sequins on this evening dress are made from gelatin, a natural animal by-product that is translucent and colorless. Gelatin sequins are extremely delicate; they can swell or dissolve when exposed to moisture. Hardened gelatin was a precursor to modern plastics, however, and in the 1930s, gelatin sequins were replaced by cellophane versions.
DescriptionSleeveless V-neck chemise dress with fish scale cellophane sequins on silk net; crystal and gold metal beads on pointed hipline panels and side inserts; fringe of crystal bugle beadsCollections
Exhibitions